Back Exercises: Side Bend Stretch

This exercise works your sides and shoulders.

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To start, sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Keep your ears, shoulders, and hips aligned. Try to relax your shoulders, and avoid rounding your back. Or you can start in a standing position (not shown) with your arms by your side and your feet shoulder-width apart. Next:

Man sitting in chair doing side stretch exercise.

  • Stretch your right arm overhead. Or you can lift both arms over your head and clasp your hands, pulling your shoulders gently back.
  • Slowly bend to the left. Don't twist your torso. Stay within your pain limits.
  • Hold for ____ seconds. Return to starting position.
  • Repeat ____ times. Then switch to the other side.

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