Purpose/Benefits

The purpose of the kneeling prayer stretch is to improve the range of motion in the upper body, such as the chest, shoulders, and back. This movement can be used as a warm up before an upper body workout or as a stand alone stretch. Since it stretches the upper body, it can help to relieve tightness that could be a result of muscle soreness or sitting for long periods of time. 

Execution and how to perform this exercise: 

1. Begin in a kneeling position

1. Sit back on heels or as close to heels with feet together and knees hip width apart

2. Walk the hands forward on the floor until the arms are stretched out in front

3. Hold this position and remember to breath 

4. To target the left side:

1. Bring hands to the right side of the body 

5. To target the right side:

1. Bring hands to the left side of the body 

2. Perform 2 to 3 sets and hold the position for 30 seconds