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Upper Back Stretch

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

Upper Back Stretch: starting positionUpper Back Stretch: finishing position
Main muscles
Upper back
Equipment
Bodyweight
Level
Beginner
Movement
Static

How to do the Upper Back Stretch

  1. Clasp fingers together with your thumbs pointing down, round your shoulders as you reach your hands forward.

Sets and reps

Mobility2–3 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

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).