← Back to Exercise Catalog

SHOULDER ABDUCTION

Strengthen shoulder abductors by pushing hands outward from central body position.

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

How to Perform

  1. Stand in shoulder-high water with arms at your sides.
  2. Bend your elbows up to 90 degrees and keep your arms close to your body with thumbs up.
  3. Push your hands out to your sides, feeling your shoulders move.
  4. Bring your hands back to the starting position, keeping your elbows close to your body.
  5. Perform movement slowly with controlled, smooth motion.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Push out smoothly against water resistance. Keep elbows at 90 degrees. Maintain steady breathing.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Avoid if shoulder pain or impingement. Do not elevate above shoulder height.

Additional Safety Notes: Do not elevate above shoulder level. Keep elbows bent throughout. Stop if experiencing pain.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase repetitions. Add longer hold at extended position. Increase arm speed.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Reduce repetitions. Decrease range of motion. Move more slowly.

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 Aquatic Exercise Guide - Upper Body Strengthening section