Chest Stretch
There are two goals for the Chest
Stretch. One is to stretch the chest muscles (pectoralis
or pecs) that frequently tighten and constrict when
you hunch over a desk or keyboard for long periods.
Another is to strengthen some of the muscles in your
upper back and neck that help your body retain its neutral
position (i.e., a position in which your weight is evenly
distributed and supported by the appropriate muscle
groups).

Performing the Chest Stretch
- Bend your arms at the elbows.
- Raise your arms so that your elbows are even with your shoulders; point your
fingers towards the ceiling, and your thumbs point towards your neck.
- Look forward and tuck in your chin.
- Slowly squeeze your shoulder blades together.
- Hold the stretch for 5-10 seconds; then slowly relax.
- Repeat 3 more times.
Alternate ways to perform the chest stretch:
- If you cannot easily raise your arms to a point
even with your shoulders:
- Raise them halfway, or as high as you can.
- Slowly pull your shoulder blades together from
that position.
- Hold the stretch for 5-10 seconds.
- Repeat 3 more times.
Or, stretch one arm at a time:
- Hold your arm straight out at shoulder level, or as high as you can raise them.
- While facing forward and without bending your elbow, reach backward as far as you can without
turning your body.
- Hold the stretch for 5-10 seconds.
- Slowly return your arm to your side.
- Rest.
- Repeat 3 more times.
If you feel any discomfort or pain
while performing the chest stretch, STOP immediately
and consult your health care provider.