Standing Elbow Clap - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Standing Elbow Clap

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Standing Elbow Clap.

EasyUpper chestMiddle chest

About this exercise

The Standing Elbow Clap is a dynamic chest and shoulder mobility drill performed standing upright. You repeatedly bring both bent elbows together in front of the chest and then open them wide behind you, alternately stretching and contracting the pectoral muscles and anterior deltoids.

How to Perform

  • Stand tall with feet shoulder-width apart and arms raised to shoulder height
  • Bend both elbows to 90 degrees with forearms pointing upward
  • Bring your elbows together in front of your chest, rounding the upper back slightly
  • Open your elbows as wide as possible behind you, squeezing your shoulder blades together
  • Keep the movement smooth and controlled throughout the full range of motion
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Upper chestMiddle chest
Secondary
Front shoulders

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Standing Elbow Clap

The Standing Elbow Clap is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.