Following a request from Claudia during the mandolin workshop today:

HANDSPAN:

Here’s a great YouTube video which show some stretches for the hands that help in increasing the span and flexibility of your hands.

STRETCHING OUT ARMS & HANDS

This YouTube video from RedDesertViolin applies not only to violin, but to any stringed instrument – about how to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome.

The wrist and arm sequence from Kit Laughlin is also very good for stretching out the same muscles.

STRETCHING OUT CHEST & SHOULDERS

The video below has some great stretches for the chest and shoulders – unfortunately about the 1minute mark there’s about 20 seconds of horrid interference noise – but the stretches are very worthwhile. (Be ready with the mute button)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tREEmpVt4-o

And here’s one for anyone with rotator cuff injuries and ‘frozen shoulder’