All Exercises

One Arm Against Wall

Engage your latissimus dorsi and teres major with this simple, effective one-arm isometric hold against a wall.

Beginner
Isolation
Static
30s per set1 min rest

Description

This exercise involves pushing one arm against a wall in a controlled manner, primarily targeting the shoulder muscles.

How to Do One Arm Against Wall

  1. 1
    Setup

    Stand facing a wall, about an arm's length away. Place one hand flat against the wall at shoulder height, fingers pointing upwards.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Position your feet shoulder-width apart, slightly staggered for stability, and ensure your body is aligned from head to heels with a neutral spine.

  3. 3

    Engage your core and imagine pulling your elbow down towards your hip, actively contracting your latissimus dorsi and teres major muscles.

  4. 4

    Maintain constant, controlled pressure into the wall with your hand, focusing the tension in your back, not just your arm or shoulder.

  5. 5

    Hold this isometric contraction for the prescribed duration, breathing steadily and deeply throughout the exercise.

Tips

  • Focus on the mind-muscle connection by actively thinking about "pulling" with your lat, even though your arm isn't moving.
  • Maintain a rigid torso and avoid shrugging your shoulder; the effort should come from your back, not your upper trapezius.
  • Breathe deeply and consistently throughout the hold to help maintain tension and focus, preventing unnecessary strain.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Leaning too far into the wall reduces lat activation and shifts tension to the shoulder; instead, maintain a stable posture and focus on the internal "pulling" sensation in your back.
  • ×Shrugging the shoulder disengages the lat and overworks the upper traps; actively depress your shoulder blade and keep your neck long.
  • ×Holding your breath creates unnecessary tension and reduces endurance; breathe rhythmically to sustain the isometric contraction effectively.

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