How to do Standing Chest Opener
StandingHoldBeginner
Standing Chest Opener is a standing stretch for your abdomen, chest and shoulders.
Step by step
- 1Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart.
- 2Bring your hands up and rest them gently behind your head, then let your elbows open out wide to the sides.
What you should feel
Feel your shoulder blades draw gently together.
Form tips
- Squeeze the shoulder blades together. Head stays tall, don't let it drift forward. Ribs down, open through the collarbones.
- No pressing on your head… your hands just rest.
- Breathe into the front of your chest.
Make it easier
If your shoulders are tight, rest your fingertips by your ears instead.
Coming out of it
On your next exhale… bring your elbows in… and lower your hands.
Muscles it works
Move slowly and stop if anything hurts. This is general guidance, not medical advice; check with a professional if you're injured or recovering.
Do Standing Chest Opener with a coach
In BendEase, a voice coach talks you into Standing Chest Opener, cues you through the hold, while the guided video shows you exactly how. It's built into routines for your abdomen and chest.
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