Strengthen the Muscles that Protect Your Shoulder

Strengthen the Muscles that Protect Your Shoulder

Table of Contents

Your scapula (a.k.a. your shoulder blade) is the foundation from which many shoulder muscles connect, including your rotator cuff. So we want a steady foundation to help us protect our shoulders from injury so we can do all the fun things we want to do in life.

Scapular push-ups are one way of doing that.

Start in a plank position on your:

  • feet (hardest)
  • knees (a little easier)
  • Skip the plank and do a hands/knees crawling position (easiest)

Step 1. Here’s where everyone messes this up. Keep your elbows straight and draw your shoulder blades together and downward toward your back pockets. You’ll feel your chest sink toward the ground and the space between your shoulder blades dip. You’ll WANT to bend your elbows but you’ll keep them straight, because you know how to follow instruction!

Step 2. Actively press the floor away and feel the space between your shoulder blades round up and raise toward the ceiling.

Repeat – Go for reps of 10 or more, but stop if your technique is falling apart. Do a few sets.

At motivPT, we’ll get you moving in a healthy way. If you have pain, weakness, or imbalance, consider booking with us for an online Physical Therapy routine customized to fit your individual needs. Book your free 15 minute consult to talk with Dr. Alex about your specific concerns and to learn more about how we work!

#scappushups#scapularpushups#shoulderstability#shoulderexercises#physicaltherapy#physicaltherapyexercises#shoulderpain#motivPT#virtualphysicaltherapy

At motivPT, we prioritize convenience without sacrificing quality. We offer virtual physical therapy, so patients can access care from home or anywhere they choose. By removing the need for travel and appointments, we make it easier to prioritize health and wellness in busy schedules.

How it Works

Picture of Dr. Alex Loch

Dr. Alex Loch

Hi, I’m Alex.
Physical Therapist
I’m a professional dancer turned physical therapist who understands how injury can disrupt how we work and play. I take a movement-focused approach and specialize in working with those who are motivated to achieve their best selves and strive to fully participate in life. I have had the opportunity to work with patients across the spectrum of care; from patients learning to walk after a stroke, patients returning to work after injury, to professional ballet dancers honing their techniques and restoring muscle imbalances. If you are someone who is driven to keep moving and not afraid to put in a little work, motivPT is right for you. I can’t wait to meet you.

Picture of Dr. Alex Loch

Dr. Alex Loch

Hi, I’m Alex.
Physical Therapist
I’m a professional dancer turned physical therapist who understands how injury can disrupt how we work and play. I take a movement-focused approach and specialize in working with those who are motivated to achieve their best selves and strive to fully participate in life. I have had the opportunity to work with patients across the spectrum of care; from patients learning to walk after a stroke, patients returning to work after injury, to professional ballet dancers honing their techniques and restoring muscle imbalances. If you are someone who is driven to keep moving and not afraid to put in a little work, motivPT is right for you. I can’t wait to meet you.