Chair Elbows Tucked Opens
- Gentle
- Seated
- Upper back & posture
- Neck & shoulders
- Chest
Animation coming soon.
Follow the steps below, or watch one of the videos listed further down.
What it is
Elbows tucked into your sides, open your hands out to the sides and back. Opens the chest and works the back of the shoulders.
How to do it
- Sit tall with elbows tucked against your ribs, forearms pointing forward.
- Keeping the elbows tucked, open your hands out to the sides.
- Squeeze your shoulder blades gently.
- Bring the hands back in front.
Key tip: The elbows don't leave your sides.
Who should skip it, and why
- Nothing specific beyond the general safety advice below. If it hurts, stop.
Easier and harder versions
- Easier
- Smaller opening.
- Harder
- Hold the open position for 3 seconds.
How much
In our videos each move runs for about 40 seconds with 20 seconds of rest. Start with less if you need to. Comfortable effort is the goal, not exhaustion.
Stop straight away and get help if you feel:
- chest pain, pressure or tightness
- dizziness, light-headedness or faintness
- breathlessness that doesn't settle when you rest
- sharp or joint pain, or pain that gets worse as you go
- numbness, tingling, or a sudden severe headache
This is general exercise information, not medical advice. If you have a health condition, or you've had a fall, injury or surgery recently, check with your doctor or physiotherapist first.
In these ChairGlow videos
- Natural Chest Lift For Seniors - Seated Only (18 min)
- Improve Posture & Stand Taller With This Chair Routine (33 min)