Serrano Extension with side hold positions

Experience Serrano Extension with side hold positions for yourself with an emphasis of the proper form. This unique exercise and execution pattern will take some practice perfect. Start with very little or no loading while practicing this specialized movement intended to rehabilitate from injury, increase strength and to reduce the risk of shoulder injuries.

Serrano Extension with side hold positions

Notice there are three different side execution positions with the non working arm. The non working arm maintains what Eric Serrano MD refers to as an ischemic position. A limb is held still during an ischemic contraction while the other limb does a series of repetitions.

The proper neck and upper back positions are very important during the Serrano Extensions with side hold positions. Choosing the correct specialized exercises for clients is a specialty of Scott Mendelson as part of his personalized 12 week platinum training and nutrition plans. 

Movement of Ischemic Contractions

The first ischemic position is out to the side, then 45 degrees and finally ninety degrees. The order of these positions can change pending the client needs. Scott Mendelson includes specialized posterior shoulder exercises such as the Serrano Extension with side hold positions at the beginning of personalized client training programs to support proper execution.

Form emphasis

Do not let the dumbbells sag downward towards the floor during any part of the set. It will take time to build strength in these specific positions. Holding a ten pound dumbbell in the static arm and fifteen pounds in the working arm for example with proper form would be an extremely good performance.

A thirty degree incline bench is typically the most appropriate position to start, however this can be modified based on many individual factors. Keep the feet firmly planted into the floor as demonstrated in the picture above.