Seated side bends allow you to stretch your neck, shoulders, back, and obliques. The biggest perk is that you can complete the movement in a chair or seated on the floor, making it easy to do anywhere. In this variation, I also incorporated a resistance band, applying slight tension to it to work my shoulders a bit more.
- Start by sitting in a chair, only as far back as allows for you to place your feet flat on the floor.
- Inhale and bend to one side, letting your torso, head and arm follow you.
- You should feel a stretch all the way down the side of your body.
- Avoid bending your back and keep your feet planted on the floor for stability.
- Return to upright position and repeat on other side.
- Repeat 5 times each side for 20 seconds each side.
If you complete this movement seated on the floor:
- Sit on your bottom, with your legs crossed
- Raise your left arm out to the side and up above your head beside your left ear.
- As you exhale, slide your right hand across the floor out to the right, letting your torso, head, and left arm follow as you bend to the right.
- Keep your bottom firmly on the floor- the movement should all be from your torso, on upward.
Please speak to your provider before starting any new exercise regimen.
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