Seated Overhead Stretch

A beginner stretch for the abs.

Movement guide

Seated Overhead Stretch

Demand · source-assignedEasy (unreviewed)

Equipment requiredOther / check instructions

Muscle focusAbs

Gets into position, then repeats the movement. Technical checks passed; qualified exercise review is pending.

Watch it bigger, and flip through similar moves, in the studio.Open in the studio

Make it easier or harder

Start where you can move well, then step up.

Easier option

This is already one of the gentlest options for these muscles.

This move

Seated Overhead Stretch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoSeated Overhead StretchBeginner · Other / check instructions

Beginner grade (source-assigned).

Harder option

Overhead lat stretch at a bench demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoOverhead lat stretch at a benchIntermediate · A bench or box

Similar move, intermediate grade.

Imported reference · editorial review pending. Clinical review is pending.

This entry comes from an external exercise database. Its instructions and difficulty have not completed our editorial or qualified clinical review.

How to move

Sit up straight on an exercise mat.
Touch the soles of your feet together with your feet six to eight inches in front of your hips.
Place one hand on the floor beside you and your other hand behind your head.
Lift your elbow to the ceiling as you incline your torso to the other side. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds, then switch sides.

Practice and cautions

No dose has been assigned. Any timing or repetition examples in the imported instructions are source examples, not an individualized recommendation.

Imported community instructions and difficulty labels have not been independently reviewed for technique or individual suitability. Equipment labels may include additions inferred from the setup text; check the instructions for the exact support or alternatives. Stop for sharp or increasing pain, numbness or tingling; seek qualified guidance for symptoms, unfamiliar equipment or advanced skills.

Add to a routine Log a session

Sources and review status

Sources support the educational description; they do not establish that this exercise is suitable for you.

Free Exercise DB · community text ↗
Unlicense · Free Exercise DB contributors; derived from wrkout/exercises.json. Text import; no photographs or media. · Revision f00c92c7dcf1216a928a52c3706c7ce8e2f71ed5

No variation is labeled clinically validated.

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What it works

Muscles

Main: Abs.

Equipment

Other / check instructions

Level

Beginner (source-assigned, not yet reviewed). See the easier and harder options above.

Similar moves

Overhead Stretch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoOverhead StretchBeginner · Other / check instructions

Standing Lateral Stretch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoStanding Lateral StretchBeginner · Other / check instructions

Overhead Triceps Stretch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoOverhead Triceps StretchBeginner · No equipment

Boat pose (Navasana) demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoBoat pose (Navasana)Intermediate · No equipment

Overhead side bend demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoOverhead side bendBeginner · No equipment

Revolved chair pose (Parivrtta Utkatasana) demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoRevolved chair pose (Parivrtta Utkatasana)Intermediate · No equipment

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Questions people ask

What muscles does the Seated Overhead Stretch work?

Mainly the abs.

What equipment do I need for the Seated Overhead Stretch?

Other / check instructions.

Is the Seated Overhead Stretch good for beginners?

It is graded beginner, so it suits most people starting out. The grade comes from the source database and has not been independently reviewed. When it feels easy, try the Overhead lat stretch at a bench.

How do I make the Seated Overhead Stretch harder?

Progress to the Overhead lat stretch at a bench, or add load, range or slower lowering once your form is solid.