When it comes to the best stretches for outdoor athletes, the emphasis tends to be on lower body movements. It makes sense: Your hamstrings, quads, and calves work hard to keep you healthy and mobile. However, upper body stretches are just as important—especially if you’re a climber, triathlete, or cyclist. Many of these stretches will feel basic, which underscores the point that sometimes you don’t have to get complicated to get results.
What to Focus on With Upper Body Stretches
If you want to have a well-balanced recovery routine, make sure to target the pectoral muscles of your chest, the deltoid and rotator cuff muscles in your shoulders, the triceps and biceps in your upper arms, and the rhomboids, traps, lats, and serratus anterior muscles in your upper back. By giving attention to each of these key areas, you’ll maintain flexibility and mobility in your top half.
The Best Upper Body Stretches for Outdoor Athletes
Some of these movements are great for a dynamic warm-up before starting an activity, while others are good recovery options. By integrating these stretches in your regular routine,…