How to Do Side Stretches on a Pool Wall

Working out in the water requires that you use your core muscles, such as your abdominal and obliques. This is because you must work much harder to hold your form and balance while in the water. Below is a stretch you can do after your workout to help relax and stretch the muscles of the waist and lengthen the body.

Instructions

Aquatic Side Stretch

1. Get in the shallow end of the pool in order to do this stretch. The deeper the water you are standing in, the more relaxing it is for your body.

2. Stand with your right side to the pool wall and your right hand on the pool edge. Stand far enough away from the wall so that your right arm is straight but do not lock the elbow. Your feet should be tight together and directly underneath your hips.

3. Push your hips out to the left and away from the wall. Then lift your left arm up and extend it overhead with the palm facing down. Press out from the wall until you feel a good stretch up along your left side. Hold for five to ten deep breaths.

4. Keep your right hand on the wall and your feet in the same position. Let your right elbow bend and press the hips to the right and towards the wall. Let your left arm relax and rest on the top of the water. Your left arm should be stretched out to the side with the palm facing down.

5. Press in until you feel a stretch along the right side of your body. Hold for five to ten deep breaths. Turn and repeat both stretches on the other side.