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Neck Isometric Rotation (Hand on Temple)

BeginnerStrengthTier T0
Neck Isometric Rotation (Hand on Temple)

Strengthen rotational neck muscles without movement. Place hand on temple and try to turn head against resistance.

Targets: Neck (Cervical Spine)

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

No equipment? Try: Towel around head

Dosage

3

Sets

5

Reps / Time

30 sec

Rest

Hold 5-10 seconds each side

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Sit or stand with good posture
  • Place palm on your temple
  • Elbow out to the side
  1. Neck Isometric Rotation (Hand on Temple) - Step 1 of 5: Gently try to turn your head toward your hand

    Step 1 of 5

    Gently try to turn your head toward your hand

  2. Neck Isometric Rotation (Hand on Temple) - Step 2 of 5: Hand resists the movement

    Step 2 of 5

    Hand resists the movement

  3. Neck Isometric Rotation (Hand on Temple) - Step 3 of 5: Use about 20-30% of your strength

    Step 3 of 5

    Use about 20-30% of your strength

  4. Neck Isometric Rotation (Hand on Temple) - Step 4 of 5: Head should not move

    Step 4 of 5

    Head should not move

  5. Neck Isometric Rotation (Hand on Temple) - Step 5 of 5: Hold for 5-10 seconds, then repeat other side

    Step 5 of 5

    Hold for 5-10 seconds, then repeat other side

Breathing

  • Breathe normally during hold
  • Do not hold breath

Form Cues

  • No head movement
  • Gentle pressure
  • Keep face forward
  • Equal effort both directions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Head actually turning
  • Pushing too hard
  • Tilting while rotating
  • Unequal effort

Safety Information

Avoid if rotation triggers dizziness. Stop if arm symptoms occur.

Progressions

Increase hold to 20-30 seconds.

Band-Resisted Neck Side BendIntermediate

Regressions