Appears in642 Workouts*

Ceiling Look Stretch

Relieve neck & back tension with the Ceiling Look Stretch! Improve flexibility & posture with this simple, effective exercise.

The Ceiling Look Stretch mainly works the neck and traps, with help from the lower back and core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
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@JustGains_XX

Ceiling Look Stretch Muscles Worked

Primary

Back Neck (splenius capitis & cervicis); Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)

Secondary

Spinal Erectors (erector spinae); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)

How to do the Ceiling Look Stretch

  1. Start in a kneeling position with your knees hip-width apart, toes flat on the floor, and palms resting on your thighs.

  2. Gently transition into a tabletop position by placing your hands in front of you, shoulder-width apart, aligning your wrists, elbows, and shoulders in a straight line.

  3. Keep your knees beneath your hips and your back flat, in line with your head and neck.

  4. Without changing the position of your hips or hands, slowly extend your neck, and tilt your head back to look up towards the ceiling.

  5. As you look up, simultaneously push your chest forward and down, curving your spine into a mild backbend.

  6. Hold this stretch, feeling a gentle extension through the neck, chest, and spine for a desired amount of time, such as 20-30 seconds.

  7. Gradually return to the neutral tabletop position with a flat back and level neck.

  8. Repeat the stretch as necessary, ensuring smooth movements and avoiding any jerky motions or excessive strain.

Remember to breathe deeply throughout the stretch and not to push beyond your comfortable range of motion. This stretch is beneficial for improving the flexibility of the neck and upper back, relieving tension and promoting better posture.

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Ceiling Look Stretch FAQs

What muscles does the Ceiling Look Stretch work?

The Ceiling Look Stretch mainly works the neck and traps, with help from the lower back and core. The main muscles are the splenius capitis & cervicis and trapezius.

What equipment do you need for the Ceiling Look Stretch?

None. The Ceiling Look Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Ceiling Look Stretch variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Cat Stretch, Kneeling Neck Stretch, Seated Sky Look and Cat Cow Lookback.

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