
Demo & instructions
Levator Scapulae Stretch
Also known as: Nose-to-Armpit Stretch, Side Neck Stretch, Neck Rotation Stretch
Instructions
Turning the head toward one armpit and easing it down with the hand stretches the muscle that runs from the neck to the top of the shoulder blade. It is the stretch for the stiff, achy spot at the base of the neck.
- Movement
- Stretch
- Type
- Isolation
- Level
- Beginner
- Typical range
- 20–45 sec
Setup
- 1Sit or stand tall with the shoulders relaxed.
- 2Reach one hand down behind the back or hold the edge of the chair to anchor that shoulder.
Execution
- 1Turn the head about forty-five degrees away from the anchored shoulder.
- 2Place the other hand on the back of the head and gently guide the nose toward the armpit.
- 3Hold with a light pressure, then release and change sides.
Breathing
Target
Equipment
Muscles worked
Equipment
Training use
Strength
Muscle building
Endurance
Conditioning