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CROSS BODY SHOULDER STRETCH

Stretch the shoulder and upper arm muscles through cross-body arm 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 one arm up, bending the elbow to bring the hand over the opposite shoulder.
  3. Use your other hand and pull gently on the elbow to feel a stretch in the shoulder.
  4. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, feeling the stretch across the shoulder.
  5. Repeat with the other arm. Complete prescribed repetitions bilaterally.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Move slowly and gently. Feel the stretch on the outside of the shoulder. Keep pulling pressure gentle.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Avoid if acute shoulder injury. Do not force beyond comfortable range. Modify if experiencing shoulder pain.

Additional Safety Notes: Never force the stretch. Stop if you experience pain. Keep movements smooth and controlled.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase hold time to 45 seconds. Increase pulling pressure gradually.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Reduce hold time to 10 seconds. Decrease pulling pressure.

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