This exercise is best done with your fingers moderately turned out, rather than straight up and down.

• Stand facing a wall, about 30 cm to 45 cm (12 in. to 18 in.) away.
• Place your hands on the wall at shoulder height.
• Slowly bend your elbows and bring your face to the wall, keeping your back and hips straight.
• Push back to the starting position.
• Repeat 8 to 12 times.
• When you can do this exercise against a wall comfortably, you can try it against a counter. You can then slowly progress to the end of a couch, then to a sturdy chair, and finally to the floor.