Levator scapulae stretch

Neck · Seated · about 50 seconds · Updated 23 October 2026

The levator scapulae stretch holds the seat with one hand, turns your head about 45° away from that side and looks down toward the opposite armpit. It targets the back of the neck and the inner edge of the shoulder blade. Hold each side for about 20 seconds.

The Moveful figure doing the levator scapulae stretch — The levator scapulae stretch as the Moveful figure demonstrates it. The pink glow shows the area it works.

How to do the levator scapulae stretch

Hold the underside of the seat with one hand.
Turn your head about 45° away from that side and look down toward your other armpit.
Hold, then switch sides.

What it works

Back of the neck

How long and how often

In a movement break it's a 20-second hold on each side, about 50 seconds in total, and it can come up in the “Neck & shoulders” class. It's meant to be repeated through the day in short breaks rather than done once; doing it regularly matters more than the exact timing.

Tips

Feel it at the back of your neck
Let the anchored arm hang heavy

Who should skip it

Neck instability, recent whiplash, or dizziness when moving your neck

Move gently, in a comfortable range. Stop if you feel sharp pain, numbness, tingling or dizziness.

Try it with the guided 3D figure →