Open book
Also called side-lying chest opener, book opening
- Works
- Middle of the back and spine · thoracic spine and its muscles
- Chest · pectoralis major
- Needs
- No equipment
Setup
Lie on your side with your knees bent to 90 degrees in front of you and a cushion under your head. Stretch both arms out in front, palms together.
Steps
- Keep your knees together and on the floor.
- Lift the top arm and open it over to the other side, like opening a book.
- Let your eyes follow your hand.
- Pause, then close the book slowly.
- Do all reps, then turn over.
Breathing
Breathe out as you move. Breathe in as you come back.
Where you feel it
A turning stretch in your middle back and across your chest.
Common mistakes
- Letting the knees lift and separate.
- Forcing the arm to the floor.
When to stop
Stop if you feel sharp pain, pain in a joint, dizziness or numbness.