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4 Post-Swim Stretching Exercises

Shoulder Savior

If you're new to swimming, or you've just had a killer workout, chances are your shoulders are going to be sore. This is because they're heavily engaged in each stroke and do a lot more work than they would in a dry-land workout.

More: Exercises to Prevent Swimmer's Shoulder

To stretch your posterior cuff, or the back part of your shoulder, simply reach your right arm across your chest and grab the elbow of it with your left hand, stretching and pulling the arm across the chest according to the depth of the stretch you feel.

Hold for 30 seconds and repeat on the opposite side.

To stretch the front of your shoulders, grab your hands behind your back and reach your arms up towards the ceiling. Hinge at the waist for more range of movement. Hold this for 30 seconds, going deeper into the stretch by lifting your arms higher as comfortable.

More3 Corrective Shoulder Exercises

Little Muscles Need Love Too

Triceps are those little muscles many of us try to work out in the gym to ensure we don't get "wings" as we age. Swimming is a great workout to target the triceps, so reward them by stretching them out once the workout is over.

To stretch your triceps, place your left hand on your left shoulder blade, and grab your left elbow with your right hand. Pull your elbow down and across your chest gently until your feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat on the opposite side.

More: 4 Ways to Improve Your Swim Technique

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About the Author

Nicole Morell

Nicole is a social media professional and writer. A long-time swimmer and a runner for the past 13 years, she thrives on all things endurance. She's a native New Englander living in California and loves the Patriots, the ocean and her dog.
Nicole is a social media professional and writer. A long-time swimmer and a runner for the past 13 years, she thrives on all things endurance. She's a native New Englander living in California and loves the Patriots, the ocean and her dog.

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