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Stretchingbeginner

Seated Overhead Stretch

How do you do a seated overhead stretch?

A beginner stretching exercise done using just your bodyweight that mainly works the abdominals. Sit up straight on an exercise mat. Touch the soles of your feet together with your feet six to eight inches in front of your hips. Place one hand on the floor beside you and your other hand behind your head.

Updated

Primary
Abdominals
Equipment
None
Level
beginner

Seated Overhead Stretch demonstration

Seated Overhead Stretch, starting position
Seated Overhead Stretch, starting position
Seated Overhead Stretch, finishing position
Seated Overhead Stretch, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Sit up straight on an exercise mat.
  2. 2Touch the soles of your feet together with your feet six to eight inches in front of your hips.
  3. 3Place one hand on the floor beside you and your other hand behind your head.
  4. 4Lift your elbow to the ceiling as you incline your torso to the other side. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds, then switch sides.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •This is a great exercise for beginners - focus on form over reps

Muscles Worked

FrontFront view. Muscles worked: abdominals
BackBack view. Muscles worked: abdominals
Abdominals

Exercise Details

Category
Stretching
Force
static
Mechanic
isolation
Level
beginner

Exercise Variations

At Home
Home workout modifications
Alternatives
Similar exercises
For Beginners
Easier modifications
Without Weights
Bodyweight options

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Seated Overhead Stretch work?

Seated Overhead Stretch primarily targets the Abdominals.

What equipment do I need for Seated Overhead Stretch?

Seated Overhead Stretch requires no equipment - it's a bodyweight exercise.

Is Seated Overhead Stretch suitable for beginners?

Yes, Seated Overhead Stretch is suitable for beginners. It's classified as a beginner-level exercise.

Alternatives to Seated Overhead Stretch

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.

Scissor Kick

Abdominals

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Stomach Vacuum

Abdominals

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Toe Touchers

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Lower Back Curl

Abdominals

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