Overhead Triceps Stretch
Description
The overhead triceps stretch is a classic upper-body stretch where you raise one arm overhead, bend at the elbow, and reach your hand down behind your head. The opposite hand can gently pull the elbow toward midline to deepen the stretch. It targets the triceps, lats, and shoulders.
Equipment Required
Overhead Triceps Stretch Instructions
- Stand or sit tall. Reach your right arm straight up overhead.
- Bend your right elbow to drop your right hand down behind your head, between your shoulder blades.
- Reach your left hand up and grasp your right elbow.
- Gently pull your right elbow toward the left and slightly down, deepening the stretch.
- Feel the stretch through the back of your right upper arm (tricep) and the right side of your back (lat).
- Keep your chest lifted. Avoid arching your lower back.
- Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Breathe deeply.
- Switch sides and repeat.
Overhead Triceps Stretch Form & Visual
Overhead Triceps Stretch Benefits
- Stretches the triceps and lats
- Improves overhead mobility
- Quick and accessible
- No equipment needed
- Excellent post-workout stretch for arm and pressing days
- Counteracts forward shoulder posture
Overhead Triceps Stretch Muscles Worked
- Triceps brachii (especially long head)
- Latissimus dorsi
- Posterior deltoid
- Teres major
Overhead Triceps Stretch Variations & Alternatives
- Bent Arm Shoulder Stretch
- Reaching-Up Shoulder Stretch
- One-Arm Lat Stretch
- Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch
- Tricep Stretch with Side Bend
- Triceps Stretch
