Exercise guide · Beginner · Stretch

Behind Head Chest Stretch: How to Do It & Muscles Worked

The behind head chest stretch is a flexibility exercise that targets the pectoral muscles. It is performed by standing tall, interlacing the fingers behind the head, and gently squeezing the shoulder blades together to stretch the chest.

Primary muscles
Chest
Secondary muscles
Triceps , Shoulders
Equipment
Assisted
Level · type
Beginner · Stretch
Demonstration of the behind head chest stretch
Front view: muscles worked by the behind head chest stretch. Primary: chest. Secondary: triceps and shoulders.
Back view: muscles worked by the behind head chest stretch. Primary: chest. Secondary: triceps and shoulders.
Primary Secondary

How to do the behind head chest stretch

  1. Step 1: Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Step 2: Interlace your fingers behind your head with your elbows pointing outwards.
  3. Step 3: Slowly squeeze your shoulder blades together and push your chest forward.
  4. Step 4: Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds.
  5. Step 5: Release the stretch and repeat as desired.

Behind Head Chest Stretch alternatives

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Step-by-step instructions and demonstration media are from the ExerciseDB exercise dataset.

This guide is general fitness information, not medical advice. Stop if an exercise causes pain and speak to a doctor or physiotherapist about injuries or health conditions before starting a new programme.