Bent-Over Neck Release
Relieve tension and soothe your upper body with this deep-stretch release. Let gravity do the work to decompress your neck and relax your traps for instant stress relief.
The Bent-Over Neck Release mainly works the hamstrings and traps, with help from the neck and lower back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Bent-Over Neck Release Muscles Worked
Primary
Hamstrings; Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)
Secondary
Side Neck Flexor (sternocleidomastoid); Spinal Erectors (erector spinae)
How to do the Bent-Over Neck Release
Setup
Stand on your yoga mat with your feet much wider than shoulder-width apart.
Position your feet parallel to each other.
Movement
Exhale as you hinge at your hips, folding your torso forward toward the floor until your back is flat or rounded, depending on your flexibility.
Place your hands on the floor in front of you for stability if needed.
Allow your head and neck to hang loosely toward the ground, focusing on relaxing the muscles.
Gently nod your head or move it slowly from side to side to deepen the stretch across the trapezius and neck. Keep your breath slow and deep throughout the hold.
Bent-Over Neck Release FAQs
What muscles does the Bent-Over Neck Release work?
The Bent-Over Neck Release mainly works the hamstrings and traps, with help from the neck and lower back. The main muscles are the hamstrings and trapezius.
What equipment do you need for the Bent-Over Neck Release?
None. The Bent-Over Neck Release is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
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