Ahhghhh! That Creaking Noise is Coming From My Upper Back....

I don't know about you, but my upper back nearly makes a creaking noise when I've been intent upon my work for very long. It's like my muscles and bones are trying to tell me that it is time for a mini-break. Here is an exercise that will work overstretched muscles in the upper back, called the Corner Stretch. It will also open tight pec muscles in front. Just like the Counteract The Computer Hunch exercise, the Corner Stretch is (among other things), a back extension movement.

Illustration (c) Anne Asher licensed to About.com 2006

More Desk Exercises

• Written Instructions for the Corner Stretch
• Stretch Your Low Back
• Collect Your Seat Muscles with Wall Squats
• Counteract The Computer Hunch!

The Corner Stretch should be done with a nice straight torso, one with abs engaged, for the full effect. For "real" exercises to help develop top to bottom abdominal muscle strength, I have selected versions of the plank pose provided by About's Pilates, Yoga and Exercise guides. Working on these (with modifications for safety, as you need) can help you build a strong center to apply when you do the corner stretch.

Ab Exercises:

• The Pilates Plank This one's got a great modification for beginners and those who need to take it easy
• The Yoga Plank
• Ab & Back Workout