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SHOULDER BLADE SQUEEZE

Strengthen and stretch the back muscles by squeezing shoulder blades together.

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

How to Perform

  1. Stand in shoulder-high water with arms at sides.
  2. Reach both arms behind your back and lace your fingers together.
  3. Squeeze your shoulder blades together as you slowly raise and straighten your arms.
  4. Hold for 20-30 seconds, feeling the contraction in your back.
  5. Relax and return to starting position.
  6. Repeat prescribed number of times.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Squeeze blades together firmly. Raise arms slowly and smoothly. Keep chest open.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Avoid if back pain. Do not hyperextend shoulders.

Additional Safety Notes: Do not hyperextend shoulders. Maintain controlled movement throughout. Breathe continuously.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase hold time. Add arm circles with hands clasped.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Decrease hold time. Reduce squeeze intensity.

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 Stretches section