Exercise guide
Seated Overhead Stretch
The Seated Overhead Stretch uses a butterfly-style seated position and a supported side bend. The side of the torso and abdominal wall may be stretched as the upper elbow reaches toward the ceiling.
Training context
Before Adding the Seated Side Stretch
The feet should be placed far enough forward that the hips and knees remain comfortable. The lower hand provides light support rather than pushing the body farther into the stretch.
Keep both sides of the pelvis grounded. A smaller bend is preferable when the torso begins rotating or the opposite hip lifts.
Technique overview
Lengthen upward before bending sideways
Sit tall with the soles of the feet together. Place one hand beside the hip and the other behind the head. Lift the upper elbow, lean gently toward the supporting hand, and hold without collapsing forward. Return upright slowly before switching sides.
Treat this as an overview and use a range, pace, and setup you can control.