Lunge Overhead Reach: Video Tutorial & Stretch Guide

Author Claude Michael

Written By: Claude Michael

Updated: Dec 18, 2024

Workout Lunge Overhead Reach
Primary Muscle Group Quads
Secondary Muscle Group Shoulders, Abs
Equipment Required None
Force Type Bodyweight
Mechanics Compound
Exercise Type Flexibility and Mobility
Difficulty Beginner

Lunge Overhead Reach: Video Tutorial & Stretch Guide

Muscle Groups

Primary Muscle Group

Quads Muscle Exercises

Secondary Muscles Group

Abs Muscle Exercises
Abs

Lunge Overhead Reach: Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 1: Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart. Engage your core, keep your chest up, and relax your shoulders. This setup gets you balanced and ready.
  • Step 2: Step forward with your right foot into a lunge. Lower your body until your right thigh is parallel to the ground. Make sure your right knee stays directly over your ankle. Stretch your left leg back, feeling the opening in your hip flexor.
  • Step 3: Raise both arms straight overhead. Reach up high, lifting your chest a bit as you extend through your shoulders. Keep your balance and feel the stretch through your upper body.
  • Step 4: Hold the reach for a few seconds. Breathe deeply and focus on stretching your hip flexors, shoulders, and back. Stay steady and connected to your breath.
  • Step 5: Lower your arms and push back through your right foot to return to the starting position. Keep your movement smooth and controlled, staying balanced as you step back.
  • Step 6: Repeat on the other side by stepping forward with your left foot. Keep alternating sides, moving with focus and staying stable throughout each lunge and reach.

Lunge Overhead Reach: Overview

The Lunge Overhead Reach combines a hip flexor stretch with a full overhead reach, targeting your hips, shoulders, and core. This move works well in warm-ups to increase flexibility and mobility. Beginners find it effective for building stability and range of motion, setting a great foundation for more advanced exercises.

Lunge Overhead Reach: Benefits

This move stretches your hip flexors, shoulders, and back while engaging your glutes and core. By practicing the Lunge Overhead Reach, you improve flexibility, expand your range of motion, and enhance your posture. This exercise also gets your body ready for more intense upper and lower body movements.

Lunge Overhead Reach: Pro Tips & Advanced Techniques

  • Stay Balanced: Engage your core to keep control and balance. Stability helps you get the most out of each stretch.
  • Reach Fully: Don’t just lift your arms—really reach up and extend. Feel that stretch through your sides and shoulders.
  • Move Slowly: Focus on slow, steady movements. The slower you go, the more control and flexibility you build.
  • Breathe Deeply: Inhale as you reach, and exhale as you step back. Deep breaths keep you focused and balanced.

Lunge Overhead Reach: Progression Plan

Beginner

Sets: 2-3
Reps: 8-10 per side
Progression Tips: Focus on form and control, reaching high with each step.

Intermediate

Sets: 3-4
Reps: 10-12 per side
Progression Tips: Hold the overhead reach a little longer to deepen each stretch.

Advanced

Sets: 4-5
Reps: 12-15 per side
Progression Tips: Add light dumbbells for extra shoulder and core activation.

Lunge Overhead Reach: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What muscles do the Lunge Overhead Reach work?

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This move stretches your hip flexors and shoulders while also working your glutes, quads, and core.

Can I add the Lunge Overhead Reach to any workout?

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Yes! Use it as a warm-up, cool-down, or in any flexibility routine. It’s perfect for opening up and loosening your body.

Does the Lunge Overhead Reach help with posture?

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Yes! This stretch opens your shoulders and hip flexors, which helps you stand taller and improves posture.

How often should I do the Lunge Overhead Reach?

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Include this exercise 2-3 times a week to improve flexibility and mobility.

What mistakes should I avoid?

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Keep your knee over your ankle—don’t let it move past your toes. Avoid rushing, and focus on control and balance to get the full benefit of each stretch.

Releted Exercises