Cat Stretch

  • Improves spinal mobility, which is important for posture
  • Provides loading though the hands to build strength in the upper limb, which is required for pre-writing/handwriting and fine motor control

 

HANDOUT
PRACTISE JOURNAL
TECHNIQUE VIDEO

Uses

  • This is a great stretch to do just prior to handwriting or other fine motor activities (e.g. using cutlery, doing up buttons, tying shoelaces, threading beads), because it activates the core and upper limb muscles (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand and fingers).

Instructions

  1. Start kneeling on all fours
  2. Arch your back up to the ceiling (angry cat)
  3. Then arch your tummy and chest down towards the floor and your bottom up in the air (happy cat)
  4. Repeat 5 times slowly
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Watch Points

  • Hands directly under your shoulders and knees under your hips
  • Neck relaxed

Seated:

  • Sit with your hands on your lap.  Curl forwards and arch your back up as high as you can (angry cat).  Then sit up straight and push your chest out (happy cat).