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Exercise guide

Upper Back Stretch

How to do the Upper Back Stretch with correct form, the muscles it works, and where it fits a training plan you actually stick to.

BeginnerStatic
Primary muscles

Mid Back

Secondary

Mid Back

Equipment

Bodyweight

Step by step

How to do the Upper Back Stretch

  1. 1

    Clasp fingers together with your thumbs pointing down, round your shoulders as you reach your hands forward.

In Ascend

Log it, see it on your body.

Every Upper Back Stretch set you log feeds Ascend's anatomy heatmap, so your mid back volume is visible at a glance, and counts toward your bodyweight-strength tier.

Train with a goal

Where the Upper Back Stretch fits

The Upper Back Stretch shows up in training built around a specific goal. See how it fits:

Related

More mid back exercises

FAQ

Upper Back Stretch: common questions

What muscles does the Upper Back Stretch work?

The Upper Back Stretch primarily works the Mid Back. It also recruits the Mid Back as supporting muscles.

Is the Upper Back Stretch suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Upper Back Stretch is a beginner-level exercise, so it's a solid choice if you're new to training. Start light and focus on the movement pattern before adding load.

What equipment do I need for the Upper Back Stretch?

None. The Upper Back Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it without any equipment.

How do I do the Upper Back Stretch with correct form?

Clasp fingers together with your thumbs pointing down, round your shoulders as you reach your hands forward. Follow the full step-by-step above for the complete movement.

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