Lying Neck Pull
Lying Neck Pull demonstration
Watch the demo so setup and tempo are clear before you follow the step-by-step cues.

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Lying Neck Pull
Work through the cues in order so setup, bracing, and reps stay consistent before you add load.
- Place your hands behind your head, interlacing your fingers and keeping your elbows wide.
- Slowly lift your head and neck off the floor, using your hands to gently pull your head towards your chest while keeping your back flat on the floor.
- Hold this position for a few seconds, making sure to keep your neck and spine aligned.
- Slowly lower your head back down to the starting position, releasing the tension in your neck, then repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions.
Tips for Performing Lying Neck Pull
Form reminders that keep range of motion and control in check once the basic pattern feels stable.
- Hand Placement: Place your hands gently behind your head. Your fingers should be interlocked and your thumbs should be behind your ears. Avoid pulling your neck or head up with your hands, which is a common mistake. Your hands are there for support, not to do the lifting.
- Engage Core Muscles: The key to this exercise is to engage your abdominal muscles. As you lift your head and shoulders off the ground, focus on using your core muscles rather than your neck or shoulders. A common mistake is to use the strength of your neck or shoulders to pull yourself up, which can lead to strain or injury.
- Controlled Movement: Perform the exercise in a slow, controlled manner. Avoid rushing through the
Can beginners do the Lying Neck Pull?
A short framing note on whether this pattern suits newer lifters before you load it heavily.
Yes, beginners can do the Lying Neck Pull exercise, but they should start with light weight or no weight at all to get used to the movement and avoid injury. It's also important to ensure proper form and technique to effectively target the neck muscles and prevent strain. Consulting with a fitness professional or trainer can be beneficial to learn the correct way to perform this exercise.
What are common variations of the Lying Neck Pull?
Compare these progressions when the main pattern is solid or you need a different stimulus with similar equipment.
- Supine Neck Pull: In this variation, you lie flat on your back on a mat, and instead of using your hands, you use the weight of your head to create resistance as you lift your neck.
- Lying Neck Pull with a Towel: For this variation, while lying down, you use a towel wrapped around your head to pull your neck forward, providing a different type of resistance.
- Lying Neck Pull with a Medicine Ball: This version involves lying down with a medicine ball placed under your neck. You use the weight of the ball to create resistance as you lift your neck.
- Lying Neck Pull with a Swiss Ball: This variation is similar to the medicine ball version, but you use a Swiss ball instead, which can provide a different



