Exercise Description Target Muscle Group Sternocleidomastoid (SCM) Secondary Muscles Scalene Muscles Exercise Type Strength Equipment Required Neck Harness With Weight Plates Experience Level Beginner Compound/Isolated Isolated Force Type Pull Target Muscles: Sternocleidomastoid Neck Lateral Flexion: Overview The muscles that do neck lateral flexion work are the sternocleidomastoid and the scalenes. These muscles help to flex the neck to the side. They also help to rotate the head to the opposite side. These muscles are important for everyday activities such as looking over your shoulder while driving or turning your head to check on a baby in a crib. Strengthening these muscles can help to prevent neck pain and improve overall function. How to Do It? Stand up tall and straight Tilt your head sideways Try and touch the ears to the shoulder Make sure you keep your shoulders straight throughout Return to the original position and repeat on the other side. Tips for Neck Lateral Flexion First, make sure that you are using the proper form. Be sure to keep your back straight and tuck your chin in so that you are looking down at your chest. Do not allow your head to tilt backwards or forwards. Second, start with a lightweight. Heavier weights can put unnecessary stress on the muscles and joints. Third, always listen to your body. If you feel any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and consult a physician. Fourth, be sure to warm up before performing any neck exercises. This will help to loosen the muscles and reduce the risk of injury. Fifth, avoid performing neck exercises if you have a recent neck injury. Sixth, be patient. It may take some time to see results.

Exercise Description Target Muscle Group Sternocleidomastoid (SCM) Secondary Muscles Scalene Muscles Exercise Type Strength Equipment Required Neck Harness With Weight Plates Experience Level Beginner Compound/Isolated Isolated Force Type Pull Target Muscles: Sternocleidomastoid Neck Flexion Overview Our neck muscles play an important role in supporting our heads and helping us maintain good posture. When these muscles are weak, we are more likely to slump forward, which can lead to back pain and other health problems. Exercising our neck muscles regularly can help to keep them strong and healthy. The muscles which work for neck flexion are the sternocleidomastoid, the scalenes, and the pectoralis minor. All of these muscles attach to the base of the skull and originate along the front of the ribcage. They work together to pull your head backward and forward. How to Do It Stand and straighten your spine. Bend your head downwards. Now, try to touch your chin on your chest without opening your mouth. Return to the starting position. Neck Flexion Tips When doing any type of neck flexion exercise, be sure to take precautions to avoid injuring your neck. Make sure that you are using a stable surface to support your head and do not strain too hard or you could cause yourself an injury. If you experience any pain or discomfort while doing these exercises, stop immediately and consult a doctor.