Neck Stretch: how to do it and muscles worked
The neck stretch mainly works your neck. You need bodyweight (no equipment).
Muscles worked
Main
How to do the neck stretch
- 1
Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed and down. Look straight ahead and keep your chin level.
- 2
Tilt your ear gently toward your shoulder until you feel a stretch along the side of your neck. For a deeper stretch, rest your hand on your head and let its weight do the work without pulling.
- 3
Hold for 20 to 30 seconds while breathing slowly, then return to centre and switch sides.
Form tip: Never pull hard or yank your head. Keep your opposite shoulder down, and stop if you feel tingling or pain down your arm.
Common questions
- Which muscles does the neck stretch work?
- The neck stretch mainly works your neck.
- What equipment do I need for the neck stretch?
- You need bodyweight (no equipment).
- How many sets and reps should I do?
- A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
- How do I track the neck stretch in SweatByte?
- Add it to a routine or a workout. Log how long you hold or perform each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.
More neck exercises
General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.