#99 - Wall Angels

Purpose:

Strengthen scapular depressors, the muscles that hold your shoulder blades down. Improves posture, “reduce hunched shoulders", and stabilizes the neck and shoulder region to increase strength and decrease pain.

Where to Feel it:

In between and below your shoulder blades. Should feel a stretching sensation in neck/shoulder area. Feeling activity in your arms is normal as well.

Description:

Stand 6-12 inches from the wall with knees slightly bent. Place your back and head against the wall, with your arms raised and elbows bent, with pinky fingers against the wall. Maintain “Spinal Ready Position" (#104), if you have been instructed to do so. If not, then just keep your low back stable and your core engaged. Start by slowly gliding your arms down the wall, maintaining contact of the pinky fingers to the wall throughout the exercise. Also keep your shoulder blades drawn down your back (do not elevate your shoulders) throughout the exercise. Repeat by slowly raising and lowering your arms.

Tip:

Remember to always keep breathing!

Reps:

5-20