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Arms Pulling Straps

Classical Repertoire Upper Body & ArmsSpinal Extension
pull to hips
Schematic — Arms Pulling Straps

⚠️ Clinical Contraindications

  • Shoulder Impingement: Keep the pull in a pain-free range; avoid forcing the straps behind the body.

Apparatus Setup

Reformer

Spring Tension 1 Red or 1 Blue Spring
Footbar Position Down
Gear Bar Normal
Stopper Normal
Headrest Down

Target Muscles

Latissimus Dorsi (Primary)Triceps (Secondary)Rhomboids (Primary)Trapezius (Secondary)

Setup Instructions

Lie prone on the long box with the chest just off the front edge, arms extended forward holding the straps.

Execution Instructions

Exhale to pull the straps down and back toward the hips, squeezing the shoulder blades together. Inhale to extend the arms forward with control, keeping the chest lifted.

Teaching Cues

Alignment

"Draw the shoulders away from the ears as the arms pull."

Form

"Keep the ribs long and the chest lifted — no sinking."

Breath

"Exhale to pull, inhale to reach forward."

Modifications & Progressions

Lighter Spring (Regression)

Use a lighter spring and a shorter reach to reduce the load on the shoulders.

Slower Tempo with Hold (Progression)

Slow the pull and hold the straps at the hips for two counts.