Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch: How-to, Tips & More

The Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch is a beginner stretching exercise for your rear delts. You do it with bodyweight. It is a good fit when your goal is general fitness.

Besides the rear delts, it also works your shoulders, so it fits well in a session that trains those muscles together.

Muscles worked

Rear delts muscle

Rear delts

Primary

Shoulders muscle

Shoulders

Secondary

How to do the Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch

  1. Bring one arm across your chest.
  2. Hold it above the elbow with your other hand.
  3. Pull it gently toward you.
  4. Hold, then switch sides.

Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch tips

  • Keep your shoulder down, away from your ear.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 30 to 90 reps per set. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range.

Equipment

Bodyweight

Type

Stretching

More rear delts exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch work?

The Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch mainly works your rear delts, with help from your shoulders.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 30 to 90 reps per set. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch good for beginners?

Yes. The Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.

What equipment do I need for the Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch?

You need bodyweight.

Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch demonstration

Add Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch to your program

Bite fills in your weights, tracks your progress and tells you when to go heavier.

Download on the App StoreComing soon