Side Neck Stretch
A beginner stretching exercise for the upper back, done with just your bodyweight.


- Main muscles
- Upper back
- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Level
- Beginner
- Type
- Isolation
- Movement
- Static
How to do the Side Neck Stretch
- Start with your shoulders relaxed, gently tilt your head towards your shoulder.
- Assist stretch with a gentle pull on the side of the head.
Sets and reps
| Mobility | 2–3 holds of 20–40 seconds each side |
|---|
Log every set in MyoStats and it works out your estimated one-rep max and suggests the next weight or rep target, so you keep progressing without guessing.
Alternatives to the Side Neck Stretch
Middle Back StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Spinal StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Chin To Chest StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Upper Back StretchBodyweight · Beginner
Neck-SMROther equipment · Intermediate
Rhomboids-SMRFoam roller · Intermediate
Questions
What muscles does the Side Neck Stretch work?
Mainly the upper back.
Is the Side Neck Stretch good for beginners?
Yes. It's rated a beginner exercise: start light and learn the movement before adding weight.
What can I do instead of the Side Neck Stretch?
Good alternatives that train the upper back: Middle Back Stretch, Spinal Stretch, Chin To Chest Stretch or Upper Back Stretch.
How many sets and reps of the Side Neck Stretch should I do?
Mobility: 2–3 holds of 20–40 seconds each side.
Exercise steps and photos: free-exercise-db (public domain).