Before beginning the tricep stretch, warm up the arms by rolling the shoulders and doing a short series of arm swings. Warming up prior to completing tricep stretches helps to prevent possible muscle strains or injury by preparing the arms for the physical activity.c

Start the tricep stretch by placing one hand on the upper portion of the back, with the elbow pointed toward the ceiling. Next, place the opposite hand on the elbow of the arm being stretched. Gently pull the elbow in towards your head. Hold this position for 20 seconds before gently releasing the arm and returning to the resting position. Repeat the stretch, alternating between arms, until the series is complete.c c

If you cannot comfortably complete the tricep stretch by reaching both arms above the head, the stretch can alternatively be completed using a towel and one arm positioned at the height of the waist. To complete the stretch using this method, start by holding a towel in the hand of the arm being stretched. Bring this arm up, placing your hand against the upper portion of your back, and pointing your elbow toward the ceiling. Allow the towel to hang down your back. Place the opposite hand behind your back at waist level and pull down on the towel. Hold this position for 20 seconds. Repeat the stretch on each arm until the series has been completed.c