Side Push Neck Stretch

Gently stretch your neck and target the levator scapulae with the Side Push Neck Stretch.

BeginnerNeck Body weight

Movement: Isolation
Force: Static
Per set: 30s
Rest: 15s

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Variations of Side Push Neck Stretch

Isolation

Side Neck Stretch

Neck · Sternocleidomastoid · Body weight

Beginner

Isolation

Seated Neck Stretch

Neck · Splenius · Body weight

Beginner

Isolation

Neck Side Stretch

Neck · Levator Scapulae · Body weight

Beginner

Isolation

Neck Circle Stretch

Neck · Levator Scapulae · Body weight

Beginner

Description

A gentle stretch for the neck that involves pushing the head to one side with the help of a hand.

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How to do Side Push Neck Stretch

01
Setup
Sit or stand tall with a neutral spine, keeping your shoulders relaxed and down away from your ears.
02
Setup
Place your left hand on the right side of your head, just above your ear, with your fingers pointing towards the top of your head.
03
Gently and slowly pull your head towards your left shoulder, feeling a stretch along the right side of your neck and into your upper back.
04
Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, breathing deeply and consciously relaxing into the stretch without forcing it.
05
Slowly release your head back to the starting position and repeat the entire sequence on the opposite side, placing your right hand on the left side of your head.

Tips

Keep your non-stretching shoulder relaxed and actively press it down slightly to enhance the stretch on the levator scapulae muscle.
For a deeper stretch, you can slightly rotate your head to look down towards your armpit on the side you are stretching before gently pulling.
Breathe deeply throughout the stretch; exhale as you deepen the stretch to help your muscles relax and increase flexibility.
Only stretch to the point of a mild to moderate pull, never to pain, as overstretching can cause injury.

Common mistakes

Shrugging the shoulder of the side being stretched reduces the effectiveness; instead, actively depress the shoulder to enhance the stretch on the levator scapulae.
Pulling your head too aggressively can cause strain; instead, apply gentle, consistent pressure to feel a mild stretch, never pain.
Holding your breath during the stretch can increase tension, so focus on slow, deep breaths to promote relaxation and deeper muscle lengthening.

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Questions

What muscles does Side Push Neck Stretch work?

Side Push Neck Stretch primarily targets Levator Scapulae.

Is Side Push Neck Stretch good for beginners?

Side Push Neck Stretch is rated beginner. Beginners can still attempt it with lighter weight and careful form, but it's best to master easier variations first.

What equipment do I need for Side Push Neck Stretch?

You need Body weight to perform Side Push Neck Stretch. If you don't have this equipment, look for variations that target the same muscles with what you have available.

What are the best tips for Side Push Neck Stretch?

Keep your non-stretching shoulder relaxed and actively press it down slightly to enhance the stretch on the levator scapulae muscle. For a deeper stretch, you can slightly rotate your head to look down towards your armpit on the side you are stretching before gently pulling. Breathe deeply throughout the stretch; exhale as you deepen the stretch to help your muscles relax and increase flexibility. Only stretch to the point of a mild to moderate pull, never to pain, as overstretching can cause injury.

What are common mistakes when doing Side Push Neck Stretch?

Shrugging the shoulder of the side being stretched reduces the effectiveness; instead, actively depress the shoulder to enhance the stretch on the levator scapulae. Pulling your head too aggressively can cause strain; instead, apply gentle, consistent pressure to feel a mild stretch, never pain. Holding your breath during the stretch can increase tension, so focus on slow, deep breaths to promote relaxation and deeper muscle lengthening.