Neck Rotations
Neck rotations take the cervical spine through its full rotational range of motion. This simple drill relieves tension from desk work and driving, warms up the neck before training, and helps maintain the rotational mobility needed for checking blind spots and overall head-turning freedom.
Setup
- Sit or stand tall with a neutral spine. Shoulders relaxed and down, chin level.
- Slowly turn your head to the right, looking over your right shoulder. Rotate as far as you can without forcing or straining.
- Hold briefly at end range (1-2 seconds), then slowly return to center.
- Repeat to the left side. Alternate sides for the prescribed number of reps.
Coaching Cues
What to feel:
- A gentle stretch along the opposite side of the neck as you rotate
- Smooth, fluid motion without clicking, grinding, or pain
Common mistakes:
- Rotating the shoulders or torso instead of isolating the cervical spine
- Moving too quickly or using momentum
- Tilting the head (side bending) instead of purely rotating
Tip
Keep your nose level with the horizon throughout the rotation. If your chin dips or rises, you are adding flexion or extension to what should be a pure rotation.
Video and animated demos coming soon.
Programming
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Reps | 8-10 per side |
| Sets | 1-2 |
| Hold time | 1-2 seconds at end range |
| Frequency | Daily, multiple times per day if desk-bound |
| When to do it | Morning routine, desk breaks, pre-workout |
Progressions
- Beginner: Slow, gentle rotations as described with no overpressure.
- Intermediate: Add light overpressure with your hand at end range, or perform isometric holds (push head into hand resistance for 5 seconds, then rotate further).
- Advanced: Combine rotation with flexion and extension (look over your shoulder and up, then look over and down) to explore the full cervical range.