Shoulder Cross-Body Stretch

Setup

- Use a stable, non-slip surface and clear enough space for the full movement and a safe stop.

- For Shoulder Cross-Body Stretch, keep the implement, grip, support and direction shown by the name and, when available, the image. If that setup is unavailable, choose an offered alternative instead of improvising another exercise.

- Stand tall with the shoulder low and the working elbow softly bent.

Execution

- Guide the upper arm across the chest without turning the torso or lifting the shoulder.

Range, tempo and breathing

- Hold 1 × 20–60 seconds with no bouncing. Keep the stretch mild to moderate and unchanged during the hold.

- Keep breathing continuously behind a steady brace. Do not hold the breath to extend the timer.

Common mistakes and prevention

- Do not pull on the elbow joint or compress the front of the shoulder. Move the support closer to the upper arm.

Regression and progression

- Use more support, a shorter lever or a smaller comfortable range.

- Increase range or hold time only a little, without changing joint alignment or turning stretch into pain.

Stop signals

- Stop for sharp or increasing pain, numbness, dizziness, chest pain, unusual shortness of breath or loss of control. Swap the exercise if a comfortable, controlled version is not available.