Pendulum exercises (also called Codman’s exercises) are soothing, low-impact movements that help improve shoulder flexibility and reduce stiffness. Perfect for post-injury recovery, arthritis relief, or general mobility maintenance, these exercises work like a “lazy swing” for your shoulder joint.
✅ Relieves Shoulder Pain – Gently loosens tight muscles without strain.
✅ Improves Flexibility – Gradually increases range of motion over time.
✅ Enhances Circulation – Promotes blood flow to stiff or injured areas.
✅ Reduces Stiffness – Great for frozen shoulder or post-surgery rehab.
✅ No Equipment Needed – Just your body and a little space!
Like a hypnotic pocket watch gently swaying, this pendulum swing exercise helps 'unstick' stiff shoulders. Perfect for warming up or relieving aches after desk work just let gravity do the work!
Imagine your arm is a relaxed metronome ticking slowly back and forth. This soothing pendulum stretch eases shoulder tension while improving controlled mobility
Gentle swinging motions to relieve stiffness, improve mobility, and promote healing in the shoulder joint. Ideal for post-injury rehab or frozen shoulder.
Low-impact movements to enhance shoulder flexibility, reduce pain, and increase blood flow without straining muscles
Modifications:
Muscles Worked | Difficulty Level |
Rotator Cuff | Beginner |
Deltoids | Adjustable |
Trapezius (lightly) | No Equipment Needed |
✔ Keep Movements Small – Avoid large swings that could strain the joint.
✔ Engage Your Core – Prevents excessive lower back bending.
✔ Breathe Naturally – Don’t hold your breath; relax into the motion.
❌ Avoid These Mistakes
✖ Force the Motion – Let gravity do the work; no pushing or pulling.
✖ Hunch Your Shoulders – Keep them relaxed and down.
✖ Rush the Reps – Slow, controlled swings are key.
Whether you call them pendulum exercises for shoulder rehab, pendulum stretch exercises, or just “gentle swings,” these moves are a must for flexibility and pain relief. Try these pendulum exercises shoulder daily for best results!