Small Muscle Group Exercises

Hitchhiker

The small muscle group exercises are important for correcting or preventing postural muscle imbalances. While the BEST study did not determine the effect these exercises have on bone strength, the BEST researchers advocate using these exercises to strengthen the muscles targeted by the strength training exercises.

Woman sitting on an exercise ball and holding a theraband in the start position of the hitchhiker exercise Woman sitting on an exercise ball and holding a theraband in the finish position of the hitchhiker exercise

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Please read before performing exercises.

Overview

Targeted Muscles

Erector spinae, external rotators.

Function

Develops and maintains good posture. Maintains the natural curves of the thoracic and cervical spine. Corrects forward head.

Set Up

Grasp the theraband with both hands, palms facing upward. Hold your elbows at your sides while maintaining a 90-degree angle at the joint.

Execution

Keeping one hand stationary, rotate the other hand outward to the side.

Keep your elbows at your sides, maintain the 90-degree angle at the elbow, keep your palms up, and keep a stiff wrist through the full range of motion.

Return to the starting position, always maintaining tension in the theraband.

Repeat 6 times with each arm. Perform 3 sets.

Reminders

  • Keep the sternum up.
  • Do not let the elbows leave the side. Move as if holding a piece of paper between the elbow and the side of your body.
  • Maintain a 90-degree elbow angle.
  • Keep the wrist stiff and aligned with the forearm. Do not allow it to hyperextend.

Reprinted, by permission, from T. Lohman, S. Going, L. Houtkooper, L. Metcalfe, T. Antoniotti-Guido, and V. Stanford. 2004. The BEST Program for Osteoporosis Prevention. Tucson, AZ: DSWFitness.