Upper Back Stretch
A beginner stretching exercise for the upper back, done with just your bodyweight.


- Main muscles
- Upper back
- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Level
- Beginner
- Movement
- Static
How to do the Upper Back Stretch
- Clasp fingers together with your thumbs pointing down, round your shoulders as you reach your hands forward.
Sets and reps
| Mobility | 2–3 holds of 20–40 seconds each side |
|---|
Log every set in MyoStats and it works out your estimated one-rep max and suggests the next weight or rep target, so you keep progressing without guessing.
Alternatives to the Upper Back Stretch
Chin To Chest StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Middle Back StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Side Neck StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Spinal StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Neck-SMROther equipment · Intermediate
Rhomboids-SMRFoam roller · Intermediate
Questions
What muscles does the Upper Back Stretch work?
Mainly the upper back.
Is the Upper Back Stretch good for beginners?
Yes. It's rated a beginner exercise: start light and learn the movement before adding weight.
What can I do instead of the Upper Back Stretch?
Good alternatives that train the upper back: Chin To Chest Stretch, Middle Back Stretch, Side Neck Stretch or Spinal Stretch.
How many sets and reps of the Upper Back Stretch should I do?
Mobility: 2–3 holds of 20–40 seconds each side.
Exercise steps and photos: free-exercise-db (public domain).