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Chin Tuck (Axial Extension)

BeginnerStrengthTier T0
Chin Tuck (Axial Extension)

Pull your chin straight back to align your head over your spine. Fundamental exercise for reducing forward head posture.

Targets: Thoracic Spine
Muscles: Deep Neck Flexors

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home

none

Home Options

  • bodyweight

Dosage

3

Sets

10

Reps / Time

30 sec

Rest

5-10 second holds

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Sit or stand with good posture
  • Look straight ahead
  • Shoulders relaxed
  • Think of lengthening the back of your neck
  1. Chin Tuck (Axial Extension) - Step 1 of 5: Without looking down, pull your chin straight back

    Step 1 of 5

    Without looking down, pull your chin straight back

  2. Chin Tuck (Axial Extension) - Step 2 of 5: Imagine making a double chin

    Step 2 of 5

    Imagine making a double chin

  3. Chin Tuck (Axial Extension) - Step 3 of 5: Feel the back of your neck lengthen

    Step 3 of 5

    Feel the back of your neck lengthen

  4. Chin Tuck (Axial Extension) - Step 4 of 5: Hold for 5-10 seconds

    Step 4 of 5

    Hold for 5-10 seconds

  5. Chin Tuck (Axial Extension) - Step 5 of 5: Relax and repeat

    Step 5 of 5

    Relax and repeat

Breathing

  • Breathe normally
  • Don't hold breath

Form Cues

  • Straight back, not down
  • Make a double chin
  • Lengthen the neck
  • Keep eyes level

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Looking down
  • Tilting head back
  • Moving shoulders
  • Tensing jaw

Safety Information

Very safe. Stop if neck pain increases.

Progressions

Add resistance with hand on chin or do against wall

Regressions

Perform lying down with head on pillow