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SKIP this exercise if painful or uncomfortable

Green (upper body) Journey

The 2 Stars Sequence

Green Stars_edited.png

Exercise 4 (4a Prep)

Video

Follow the onscreen breathing instructions Inhale Exhale

Tap on 'Next' for the next exercise (unavailable when in full screen)

  • Learn and follow the exercise instructions below.

  • Practice this exercise daily as part of your sequence. 

  • Perform this exercise only in pain free and comfortable ranges.

  • If necessary, seek professional advise to use as part of a rehabilitation program.

Learn the Exercise

4a Prep is a special exercise, because the user pulls the StarBarre away from the wall to form a TRX style sling-training device. At home, it is possible to practice this exercise in front of the kitchen counter (place fingers in sink), a windowsill or a balcony rail.

This exercise includes a very comfortable shoulder flexion and lower spine elongation stretch, as well as a powerful a powerful arm pulling element while using guided imagery.

4a Prep is a more basic version of 4a, with less movement elemnts and a simple breathing pattern.


Warnings

  • Perform this exercise in pain-free and comfortable ranges only.

  • Perform the first-ever repetitions of this exercise very slowly and gradually, to gauge the strength required from each shoulder and arm.

  • In the case of a known shoulder instability, or a history of shoulder dislocations, consult with a rehab professional on how and when to approach this important functional exercise.

  • If painful or uncomfortable, perform the stretch with the arm close to the body.

  • If it is not possible, skip this exercise and consult with a physical therapist or movement professional.


Tempo

  • Move 1 - stretch 1 - move 2 - stretch 2 - return - relax -...


Breathing Pattern

  • Inhale - Starting position.

  • Exhale - Movement, stretch and return phases.

  • Inhale - Relaxed phase/starting position.



Starting Position


  • Pull the StarBarre away from wall and walk back until the straps are taught.

  • Hold the bar in this position and position the feet on the floor so the body is in its balanced upright position.

  • It is okay if the elbows are flexed in this position.

  • Look at the horizon.

  • Alternatively, it is possible to use a kitchen sink, windowsill or balcony rail with no compromise to the exercise.

  • Inhale.


Movement Phase


  • Constantly pull with the arms to keep the bar straps tight.

  • While extending the elbows and keeping the StarBarre straps taught, exhale and perform a squat.

  • Ensure that the entire spine is in the neutral position, the elbows extended and the shoulders in full (available) flexion.

  • Throughout movement phase, the shoulders, knees and toes form a straight vertical line (don't allow the knees to get in front of the toes).


Stretch Phase


  • Pause in this position for about a second while still exhaling, then inhale.

  • Eyesight in this position is towards the knee height point on the wall in front.

  • In this position, continue 'pulling' the pelvis back and low while holding the spine in its neutral position.

  • Increase the strap tension to the maximum possible.

  • A great longitudinal stretch to the spine is felt, as well as a balanced bilateral full flexion and distraction shoulder stretch.

  • If pleasant, indulge in this stretch for a second or two while continuing the movement phase exhalation, then inhale.


Return Phase


  • Upon exhalation, use the arms only to pull the body from the stretch position back to balanced upright standing.

  • Guided imagery technique: To facilitate the use of arm muscles during the return phase, imagine that the bar is actually a branch of a tree, and there is no floor; you are hanging in the air and can only use arms to return.


Relax Phase


  • Assume the upright balanced standing posture, looking towards the horizon.

  • Relax the body muscles in that position and inhale.

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