Closed Chain · closed chain
Dolphin press
Strengthen the shoulder-blade muscles in high shoulder flexion.
Complete
Why it is used in rehab
Serratus anterior is a key mover and stabiliser of the shoulder blade; the position is more stressful for the biceps tendon, so it comes last (PDF pp. 401, 444).
Targets
Starting position
Forearm plank, elbows under shoulders; walk the feet in and lift the hips with a flat back.
Step-by-step
- Let the head lower and the shoulder blades come together.
- Push the forearms into the floor so the shoulder blades spread and the body lifts.
Movement mechanics: Scapular protraction in flexion.
📖 Rehab Science instructions paraphrased from the book’s exercise description
Coaching notes
Common mistakes
- Rounding the back
- Bending the knees excessively
Easier variation
- Smaller hip lift
Advanced variation
- Pause at top
ℹ Additional explanation
Where it appears in Rehab Science
| Protocol | Phase | Group | Prescription | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shoulder Instability | 3 | Exercises | Do 3 sets of 10–15 reps · Push sets to fatigue | 418 |
| Biceps Tendinopathy | 3 | Exercises | Do 3 sets of 10–15 reps · Push sets to fatigue | 461 |
Source: Rehab Science · Ch 16 · PDF pp. 418–461show sources ▾
Page numbers are those of the uploaded PDF edition. "Find original" opens a PubMed search for the cited study.