Seated Stretching

As we get into the summer months and prepare for upcoming travel, keep these seated stretches in mind. Whether you are driving in the car, sitting on a plane, or enjoying a staycation here in California, make sure to carve out 5-10 minutes to take care of your body and stretch your muscles.

Lateral Neck Flexion Stretch

1. Begin seated with your feet planted firmly on the ground and your back supported by your chair.
2. Stabilize yourself with one hand resting on your seat or on the arm of your chair.
3. With your other hand, reach over your head and gently pull your ear to your shoulder.
4. Hold this position for 30 seconds.
5. Release slowly and repeat on the other side.

Lateral Torso Release

1. Begin seated with your feet planted firmly on the ground and your back supported by your chair.
2. Stabilize yourself with one hand resting on your seat or on the arm of your chair.
3. Raise your arm overhead and bend your arm and torso to one side to target your torso and arm.
4. Hold for 30 seconds, then return to starting position and repeat.

Overhead Triceps Stretch

1. Begin seated with your feet planted and your back supported by your chair.
2. Raise one hand overhead and then bend the elbow so that your palm faces your spine.
3. Apply gentle pressure to the bent elbow with your other hand to provide a stretch.

Seated Hamstring Stretch

1. Place your glutes toward the edge of your seat. Make sure to find a stable position.
2. With one knee bent as you are seated, kick your other heel out in front of you, keeping your leg straight.
3. Gently lean forward until you feel a hamstring stretch.
4. Slowly release and repeat on the other side.