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PVC Pipe Chest and Shoulder Stretch

Beginner
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Mobility exercise using a PVC pipe to dynamically stretch the chest and shoulders, targeting pectorals and anterior deltoids to improve flexibility and range of motion for overhead movements.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Chest, Shoulders

Secondary Muscles

Traps

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Mobility

Training Style

Mobility Flow
Warm-up

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Chest

10/10

Mid Chest

Shoulders

9/10

Anterior Delts

Lats

6/10

Traps

4/10

Upper Traps

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-12 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a PVC pipe with an overhand grip wider than shoulder-width, arms extended in front of hips.

  1. Raise the pipe overhead in a circular arc while keeping arms straight.
  2. Pass the pipe behind your head toward the lower back without arching the lumbar spine.
  3. Reverse the motion slowly, bringing the pipe back overhead and to the front.
  4. Maintain core engagement throughout.
  5. Breathe steadily and control the movement.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Keep arms straight
  • Engage your core
  • Use wide grip initially
  • Move slowly without jerking
  • Avoid lower back arch

Breathing

Inhale as you raise the pipe overhead; exhale as you pass it behind your head and relax into the stretch.

Tempo

3-2-3

Range of Motion

Move from arms extended in front of hips to behind the lower back, keeping elbows straight and pipe perpendicular to the ground.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Stop if you feel sharp pain or joint grinding
  • Start with wider grip if tight
  • Consult a professional for shoulder injuries
  • Avoid if acute rotator cuff issues exist

Spotting

No spotting required; perform in a safe space with control.

Common Mistakes

  • Bending elbows excessively
  • Arching the lower back
  • Using momentum or fast movements
  • Forcing into painful range
  • Narrow grip too soon

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Recent shoulder surgery

Flexibility Needed

  • Basic shoulder flexion
  • Wrist extension for grip

Build Up First

  • Familiarity with controlled movements

Also known as

PVC Pass-Through, Shoulder Dislocates, PVC Shoulder Mobility Stretch

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