Seated Side Bend


Instructions

  • Sit up straight on the edge of a chair with both feet firmly on the ground
  • Place your left arm on your left knee
  • Reach your right arm up and over your head
  • Lean your upper body to the left and bend your torso as far as you can comfortably go
  • Hold the stretch for 10-30 seconds
  • Return to starting position and repeat on the opposite side

Benefits

  • Abdomen: This stretch helps to improve flexibility in the abdominal muscles, and can assist with improving posture by decreasing tightness in the sides of the torso. It can also help to strengthen the core muscles, which are important for balance and stability.
  • Back: This stretch helps to release tension in the lower and mid-back, aiding with improved mobility and flexibility in the spine. It can also help to improve posture by strengthening the muscles of the back, which in turn helps support the spine.
  • Hips: This stretch helps to release tension and tightness in the hips, which can improve mobility and flexibility in the hip joint. It can also help to strengthen the muscles of the hips, allowing for better stability and balance.
  • Shoulders: This stretch helps to open up the chest and shoulders, improving flexibility, mobility and range of motion in the shoulder joint. It can also help to improve posture by strengthening the muscles of the shoulders and upper back.
  • Arms: This stretch can help to release tightness in the arms and improve mobility and flexibility in the shoulder joint. It can also help to strengthen the muscles of the arms and shoulders, aiding with improved stability and balance.