Fitness Testing
Fitness Testing > Tests > Flexibility > Shoulder Reach
Shoulder Reach flexibility test
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purpose: To test the flexibility of the shoulder joint, which is important for injury prevention and in particular is important in swimming, racquet sports and throwing sports.
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description / procedure: Test your left shoulder by standing with your right arm straight up, then bend your elbow so your hand hangs behind your head. Keeping your upper arm stationary, rest your palm between your shoulder blades. Reach around behind you with your left arm so the palm is facing out and try to touch the fingers of both hands together. Reverse the procedure and repeat with the opposite shoulder.
- scoring: measure the minimum distance between hands. See the table below for general guidelines for interpreting the results
Good |
Fingers are touching |
Fair |
Fingertips are not touching but are less than two inches apart. |
Poor |
Fingertips are greater than two inches apart. |
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equipment required: ruler or tape measure.
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disadvantages: Variations in arm length can make comparisons between individuals misleading.
Related Pages
- Another simple Shoulder Flexibility Test
- see also the shoulder flexibility exercises on this list of stretches
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