The Pectoralis Stretch improves flexibility of the anterior chest musculature and corrects postural shoulder imbalance.
Use it regularly after upper-body workouts to support the muscle recovery process.
Many tennis players have tight pecs due to overuse activities in the gym, such as bench pressing or pushups.
As a result the shoulders are tilted forward because the chest musculature is more developed than the back musculature.
If you want to start correcting the shoulder forward tilt then implement the pectoralis stretch into your post-workout static stretching program.
This can also reduce the risk for injury at the shoulder.
Pectoralis Stretch Recommendation
Implement the stretch into your static stretching routine post training or workout. This is also a great time to relax mentally.
Either close your eyes and focus on your breathing or you can also listen to relaxing music.
After you are finished stretching out you should feel relaxed and ready for a good massage!
Pectoralis Stretch Description Summary
- Stand in front of an object (e.g. pole)
- At 90˚ shoulder flexion horizontally abduct the shoulder, externally rotate and flex the elbow; elbow and palm of the hand touch the pole
- Step forward with the contralateral foot and lean forward with the upper body
- Maintain neutral pelvic and spine position; push chest out; look forward
- Hold stretch for 45 seconds
Targeted Musculature
- Pectoralis Major
Other Stretches For You
Apart from the pectoralis stretch we have some other stretches for you that target the muscles acting on the shoulder.
Simply click on them to learn more or watch the videos:
Training Zone
We provide you with some more workouts and training tips you may be interested in to optimize your training.
Also, make sure that you warm up properly before and stretch out after your training session.