The side push neck stretch is a gentle stretching exercise targeting the levator scapulae and other neck muscles. It helps improve flexibility and relieve tension in the neck and upper shoulders.
Also Works
TrapeziusSternocleidomastoid
How to Perform
1
Stand or sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed.
2
Tilt your head to the right, bringing your right ear towards your right shoulder.
3
Place your right hand on the left side of your head and gently apply pressure to increase the stretch.
4
Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds.
5
Repeat on the other side, tilting your head to the left and applying pressure with your left hand.
6
Repeat the stretch 2-3 times on each side.
Pro Tips
•Apply pressure gently and gradually; the neck muscles are small and sensitive to overstretching.
•Keep both shoulders level and relaxed; the non-stretching shoulder tends to creep upward.
•Tilt your head directly to the side, not forward or backward, to target the lateral neck muscles.
Common Mistakes
•Pushing the head too aggressively with the hand, which can strain the neck muscles or compress the cervical spine.
•Elevating the opposite shoulder, which reduces the stretch and can cause the stretching side to cramp.
•Holding the stretch for too short a duration to produce meaningful flexibility gains.