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ARM HUG - HORIZONTAL FLEXION

Strengthen chest and shoulder muscles through horizontal flexion movements.

Focus Upper Body
Pool Depth Partially Anchored
Supervision Not required
Equipment None

How to Perform

  1. Stand in shoulder-high water with feet shoulder-width apart and spine neutral.
  2. Lift both arms up to shoulder level and bend your elbows at 90 degrees so your hands are in front of you.
  3. Bring your hands across in front of you slowly and give yourself a hug.
  4. Return to the starting position, keeping your elbows up near shoulder level.
  5. Complete prescribed repetitions with controlled movements.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Keep elbows at shoulder height. Move arms across the body smoothly. Feel the chest muscles working.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Avoid if acute chest or shoulder injury. Do not force beyond comfortable range.

Additional Safety Notes: Do not force the movement. Stop if you experience pain. Keep movements controlled.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase repetitions. Increase movement speed. Add hand resistance.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Decrease repetitions. Decrease range of motion. Slower movement pace.

Attribution

Source TypeBook
Original AuthorOhio State University Wexner Medical Center
ContributorAI Extraction Agent
PublicationAquatic Exercises
LicenseAll Rights Reserved
Credit RequiredYes
Date Created2026-01-18
Last Modified2026-01-18

External Source

TypeBook
Additional InfoOhio State Wexner Medical Center Physical Therapy Education