Back to library
Exercise Library
One Arm Against Wall
A single-arm lat and shoulder stretch performed leaning against a wall, useful for restoring overhead range and easing lat tightness between pulling sessions.
BackBodyweightStatic stretch
GoLightWeight mediaone-arm-against-wall
Demonstration coming soon
Primary
Latissimus dorsi
Secondary
Teres majorTriceps long headPosterior deltoids
Equipment
Bodyweight
Pattern
Static stretch
Setup
- 01Stand facing a wall about half an arm's length away.
- 02Place one palm high on the wall with the arm extended overhead.
- 03Step the same-side foot slightly back and soften the knees.
- 04Keep the ribs down so the stretch comes from the lat, not the lower back.
Execution
- 01Hinge slightly at the hips and let the chest sink toward the wall.
- 02Push the armpit gently toward the wall until a stretch is felt down the side of the torso.
- 03Hold the position while breathing slowly and deeply.
- 04Ease out of the stretch and switch arms.
Checkpoints
- -The stretch is felt along the lat and side of the torso, not in the shoulder joint.
- -Lower back stays neutral rather than arching to fake range.
- -Breathing stays slow and unforced throughout the hold.
- -The elbow stays extended without locking hard.
Common mistakes
- -Arching the lower back instead of stretching the lat.
- -Shrugging the shoulder up toward the ear.
- -Bouncing into the stretch instead of holding steadily.
- -Holding the breath, which keeps the tissue guarded.
Programming notes
- -Hold 20 to 40 seconds per side for 2 to 3 rounds.
- -Use before pulling or overhead sessions to open range, or after training to unwind.
- -Keep intensity at a comfortable stretch, never sharp pain.
Related exercises
Almost there
Coming soon to iOS & Android
GoLightWeight is in the final stretch. Free to download, no account required to start.
Coming soonApp Store
Coming soonGoogle Play