Students with shoulder impingements due to stiffness, overuse, injury or even surgery are often confused about how to bring the hands under the bolster. It’s a progression for many with shoulder problems and there are numerous approaches that work. The student should vary them a bit from class to class. See various approaches below:
Begin with arms at side, resting and releasing. (Good)
Arms are extended and moving toward the many wrap options around the bolster. (Good)
Upper arm is 90 degrees to the torso and the palm is up toward the ceiling, and off the floor. (Good)
(Not Good) Elbows are low and she’s trying to get the hands under the bolster, but this approach will not bring the results we want.
Upper arm is 90 degrees to the torso and elbows are wrapping around the end of the bolster. Note the elbow is down and the hand is above the floor. (Good)
Upper arm is 90 degrees to the torso and the hands are starting to go under the bolster form the sides. (Good)
