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Seated Neck Release Stretch being performed with proper form
Seated Neck Release Stretch demonstration video — proper form for the full movement.

How to do a Seated Neck Release Stretch

Reviewed by Jim Parker, CPT, B.A. Kinesiology

About this exercise

Sets Logged
302,562
Popularity Rank
378th
Difficulty
Beginner
Equipment Required
Bodyweight-only

Workouts with Seated Neck Release Stretch

    Target muscles worked

    Primary Muscles
    Neck
    Secondary Muscles
    None

    Instructions for Proper Form

    Seated Neck Release Stretch is a simple and effective stretch that targets the muscles in the neck. By performing this stretch from a seated position, you add stability, allowing you to focus on relaxing and elongating the neck muscles. This stretch is great for improving flexibility and relieving tension in the neck, especially for individuals who spend a lot of time sitting or working at a computer.

    1. Sit upright with your legs crossed and place your right hand on the top of your head with your left hand behind your hips.
    2. Slowly drop your right ear to your right shoulder with a slight pull with your right hand until you feel a comfortable stretch on the left side of your neck.
    3. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat with the opposite side.

    Alternatives & Variations to Seated Neck Release Stretch

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    1. 1. Head Tilt

      Photo of Head Tilt being performed
      7.9 mSCORESWAPPED 778 TIMES

      Head Tilt is an isolation exercise that primarily targets the muscles in the neck. By tilting your head side to side, you can help to stretch and strengthen the neck muscles, improving flexibility and reducing tension. This exercise is especially useful for those looking to improve neck mobility or relieve neck stiffness.

    2. 2. Chin Drop

      Photo of Chin Drop being performed
      8.7 mSCORESWAPPED 398 TIMES

      Chin Drop is a bodyweight, isolation exercise that primarily targets the neck muscles. This exercise involves slowly lowering your chin toward your chest while maintaining tension in your neck. It's effective for strengthening the neck muscles and can be a useful addition for those looking to improve neck stability and muscle tone.

    3. 3. Pigeon Pose

      Photo of Pigeon Pose being performed
      7.1 mSCORESWAPPED 31 TIMES

      Pigeon Pose is a yoga stretch that primarily targets the hip flexors and glutes. By extending one leg back and resting the other leg bent in front, you significantly stretch the hip joints and muscles. This pose is excellent for improving hip mobility and flexibility, making it a beneficial addition to any lower body or mobility routine.

    4. 4. Cross-body Arm Stretch

      Photo of Cross-body Arm Stretch being performed
      11.9 mSCORESWAPPED 28 TIMES

      Cross-body Arm Stretch is a basic isolation stretch that primarily targets the shoulders, specifically focusing on the rear deltoids and triceps. By pulling one arm across your body and holding it with the opposite arm, you can improve flexibility and relieve tension in the shoulders. This stretch is an excellent addition to any warm-up or cool-down routine to enhance shoulder mobility and reduce injury risk.

    5. 5. Tricep Stretch

      Photo of Tricep Stretch being performed
      8 mSCORESWAPPED 28 TIMES

      Tricep Stretch is a simple and effective stretch that primarily targets the triceps. By extending one arm overhead and using the opposite hand to pull the elbow behind the head, you can get a deep stretch in the tricep. This is a great addition to any workout routine to help improve flexibility and prevent injury.

    6. 6. Face Down Plate Neck Resistance

      Photo of Face Down Plate Neck Resistance being performed
      81.1 mSCORESWAPPED 25 TIMES

      Face Down Plate Neck Resistance is an isolation exercise that primarily targets the neck muscles, notably the posterior cervical muscles. While lying face down on a bench, you place a weight plate on the back of your head. This exercise helps to strengthen and stabilize the neck, which can be crucial for improving posture and preventing injuries, especially for athletes involved in contact sports.

    7. 7. Up Dog

      Photo of Up Dog being performed
      3.1 mSCORESWAPPED 25 TIMES

      Up Dog is a yoga-inspired, bodyweight exercise that primarily targets the muscles in your core and lower back. By extending your arms and pressing your hips towards the ground, you get a good stretch along your spine and abdominal muscles. This exercise is beneficial for improving flexibility and posture, and can serve as a great mid-workout stretch.

    8. 8. Child's Pose

      Photo of Child's Pose being performed
      3.7 mSCORESWAPPED 23 TIMES

      Child's Pose is a yoga-based stretching exercise that primarily targets the lower back, hips, and thighs. This exercise helps improve flexibility and relaxes the muscles in the back and hips. It's a great way to cool down after a workout, release tension, and improve overall flexibility. This pose can be easily adapted to accommodate different levels of flexibility and comfort.

    9. 9. Wrist Extension Stretch

      Photo of Wrist Extension Stretch being performed
      9.9 mSCORESWAPPED 21 TIMES

      Wrist Extension Stretch is a flexibility exercise that targets the wrist and forearm muscles. This stretch can improve range of motion and help prevent injuries commonly associated with tight wrists. It's a great addition to your warm-up or cool-down routine, particularly beneficial for anyone performing a lot of pushing or gripping exercises.

    10. 10. Posterior Isometric Neck

      Photo of Posterior Isometric Neck being performed
      63.5 mSCORESWAPPED 16 TIMES

      Posterior Isometric Neck exercise is an isolation movement that targets the muscles in the back of the neck. By pressing your head against an immovable object, you can engage these muscles without requiring movement. This is a great exercise for improving neck strength and stability, and can be especially beneficial for individuals looking to enhance their overall posture and neck support.