Exercise Extra – Pectoralis Stretch

July 25, 2018

The pectoral muscles (major and minor) are located in the chest attaching to the collarbone (clavicle), sternum, ribs and the arm bone (humerus).

Pectoral tightness results in the movement of the shoulder forward and occurs with poor postural habits (‘slouching’) where the chest concaves and the shoulders become rounded.

This positioning increases the risk of shoulder injury with tasks such as reaching and is particularly relevant to those doing upper body weight training.

How? Place your forearm on a doorframe so that the elbow is at shoulder height. Lunge forward with the same foot as arm keeping your chest facing forward and you should feel a stretch across the front of your chest. Hold for 60secs each side. Alternatively, stretch both arms at the same time.

Feel free to try this stretch. STOP IMMEDIATELY and do not continue if you experience ANY pain (especially pins and needles or discomfort into the neck, upper back, arms or hands)!