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A guide to basic stretches

Shoulder stretch with towel

The shoulder's internal rotators are part of the group of muscles often used in overhead sports activities. These activities can include a tennis serve or an overhead throw. To stretch these muscles:

  • Grasp a rolled-up towel firmly with both hands, as shown.
  • Gently pull the towel upward with your top hand. You'll feel a stretch in the shoulder of your opposite arm as your lower hand is gently pulled farther up your back.
  • Hold for about 30 seconds.
  • Switch hands and repeat.