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Neck Flexion with Overpressure

IntermediatestretchTier T1
Neck Flexion with Overpressure

Gentle self-assisted stretch for the back of the neck using hand pressure. Use caution and keep gentle.

Targets: Neck (Cervical 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

2

Sets

18 sec

Reps / Time

15 sec

Rest

Hold 15-20 seconds

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Sit with good posture
  • Interlock fingers behind your head
  • Elbows point forward
  1. Neck Flexion with Overpressure - Step 1 of 5: Gently lower chin toward chest

    Step 1 of 5

    Gently lower chin toward chest

  2. Neck Flexion with Overpressure - Step 2 of 5: Allow hands to add gentle additional pressure

    Step 2 of 5

    Allow hands to add gentle additional pressure

  3. Neck Flexion with Overpressure - Step 3 of 5: Do not pull forcefully

    Step 3 of 5

    Do not pull forcefully

  4. Neck Flexion with Overpressure - Step 4 of 5: Feel stretch in back of neck

    Step 4 of 5

    Feel stretch in back of neck

  5. Neck Flexion with Overpressure - Step 5 of 5: Hold for 15-20 seconds

    Step 5 of 5

    Hold for 15-20 seconds

Breathing

  • Slow breaths
  • Exhale to relax

Form Cues

  • Gentle pressure only
  • No forcing
  • Relax into it
  • Stop if symptoms

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Pulling too hard
  • Forcing through resistance
  • Holding breath
  • Continuing despite symptoms

Safety Information

STOP if arm symptoms occur. Very gentle only. Avoid with disc issues.

Progressions

Slightly longer holds if tolerated.

Supine Cervical ProtractionBeginner

Regressions

No overpressure. Just gravity.