A trainer notices a client shrug their shoulders during a cable press.

When a client shrugs their shoulders during a cable press, NASM’s movement assessment principles indicate overactivity of the upper trapezius and scalenes—secondary muscles of respiration and neck movement. The guide points out in the respiratory system section that “abnormal breathing patterns… are associated with the use of secondary respiratory muscles (sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, or scalenes).” Overactivity in these muscles during upper body pushing movements reflects compensations, often due to weakness or under-recruitment of the prime movers (pectorals, deltoids, triceps) or stabilizers. Static stretching is recommended for overactive muscles to restore normal length-tension relationships. The “static upper trapezius/scalene stretch” directly addresses the tightness and helps improve overhead or forward pressing mechanics by reducing unwanted scapular elevation. Other stretches listed in the options (soleus, erector spinae, latissimus dorsi) target entirely different regions—lower leg, lower back, or lateral back muscles—and would not address the observed compensation. This correction aligns with NASM’s flexibility continuum: inhibit (SMR) → lengthen (static stretch) → activate (strengthen underactive muscles) → integrate (dynamic movements), restoring balanced shoulder mechanics.