I Raise
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The I Raise is a bodyweight strength exercise performed by lying face down on the floor and lifting your arms overhead into an "I" position while squeezing your shoulder blades together, targeting the upper back muscles like the trapezius, rhomboids, and rear deltoids. Its primary purpose is to improve posture, enhance scapular stability, and strengthen the posterior chain for better pulling strength. Ideal for beginners, athletes, or anyone seeking low-equipment back development without weights.
How to Perform I Raise
- 1Stand tall with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and arms extended straight down at your sides, palms facing your body.
- 2Engage your core and squeeze your shoulder blades together to lift both arms out to the sides in a "Y" shape (about 30 degrees forward from straight out to the sides), thumbs pointing up.
- 3Inhale as you prepare, then exhale as you raise your arms up and slightly back until they form an "I" shape overhead, keeping arms straight and shoulders down.
- 4Pause briefly at the top while squeezing your upper back muscles.
- 5Inhale as you slowly lower your arms back to the "Y" position, resisting the descent.
- 6Exhale as you lower arms fully to the starting position at your sides.
- 7Repeat for desired reps, maintaining a slow, controlled tempo.
- 8Key form tips: Keep shoulders away from ears (no shrugging); move only arms and shoulders—avoid arching your lower back; use light range if you feel neck strain. Common mistakes: Swinging arms with momentum or bending elbows.
