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  • Stretches
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Stretches
Stretching keeps muscles flexible, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in our joints. Without stretching, muscles shorten and become tight, that puts you at risk for strains and general muscular discomfort. Find some sample stretches below.

Neck

Neck Turns

neck 1
neck 2
neck 3
neck 4

Time: 2 minutes

Instructions:

  1. This can be done while you're seated or on your feet. Keep your moves slow and smooth.
  2. Start with your head squarely over your shoulders and your back straight.
  3. Lower your chin toward your chest and hold for 10-20 seconds. Relax, and slowly lift your head back up.
  4. Tilt your chin up toward the ceiling and bring the base of your skull toward your back. Hold for 10 seconds, then return to the start position.
  5. Repeat as many as 5 repetitions.

Shoulder

Tricep Stretches

shoulder 1
shoulder 2

Time: 2 minutes

Instructions:

  1. This can be done while you're seated or on your feet. Keep your moves slow and smooth.
  2. Stand straight with your feet hip width apart. Lift and bend one arm until your hand is in the middle of your upper back.
  3. Grasp the elbow with your no-stretching hand and gently pull.
  4. Hold for 10 - 20 seconds, then repeat on the other arm.
  5. Repeat as many as 5 repetitions.

Wrists

Wrist / Carpal Tunnel Sretches

wrist 1
wrist 2
wrist 3

Time: 2 minutes

Instructions:

  1. This can be done while you're seated or on your feet. Keep your moves slow and smooth.
  2. Place one arm straight out in front of you, elbow straight, with your wrist extended and fingers facing the floor.
  3. Spread your fingers slightly and use your other hand to apply gentle pressure to down-facing hand, stretching your wrist and fingers as far as you can, or complete as pictured.
  4. Hold for 10 - 20 seconds, then repeat on the other wrist.
  5. Repeat as many as 5 repetitions.

Fingers

fingers 1
fingers 2

Time: 2 minutes

Instructions:

  1. This can be done while you're seated or on your feet. Keep your moves slow and smooth.
  2. Place your hands above the desk, elbows bent, with your palms facing the floor.
  3. Spread your fingers as much as possible, you may use your other hand to facilitate a further stretch.
  4. Hold for 10 - 20 seconds, then repeat after briefly making a tight fist.
  5. Repeat as many as 5 repetitions.

Lower Back

Spinal Twist

lowerback 1
lowerback 2

Time: 2 minutes

Instructions:

  1. This can be done while you're seated. Keep your moves slow and smooth.
  2. Hold the left shoulder of your chair with your left hand. Place your right hand in the same region and 'pull' with your right arm.
  3. Hold for 10 - 20 seconds, then repeat on the other side.
  4. Repeat as many as 5 repetitions.

Glutes

Seated Glute Stretch

glutes 1
glutes 2

Time: 2 minutes

Instructions:

  1. This can be done while you're seated. Keep your moves slow and smooth.
  2. Bring your left knee up and over your right leg so that your left foot is on the chair.
  3. Hold your left knee with both hands and pull it into your chest.
  4. Hold for 10 - 20 seconds, then repeat on the other leg.
  5. Repeat as many as 5 repetitions.

Calves

Calf Stretch

calves 1
calves 2

Time: 2 minutes

Instructions:

  1. This can be done while you're standing. Keep your moves slow and smooth.
  2. Position yourself with your hands against the wall for balance.
  3. Rise to stand on tour toes.
  4. Hold for 10 - 20 seconds, then repeat on the other leg.
  5. Repeat as many as 5 repetitions.

Exercise Reminder

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