How should you perform the neck stretch effectively?

Performing the neck stretch effectively involves leaning your ear towards your shoulder and holding that position for a count of 10 seconds. This method gently stretches the muscles on the side of the neck, promoting flexibility and reducing tension. By holding the stretch, you allow the muscles to relax and elongate, enhancing the effectiveness of the stretch.

In contrast, twisting your head quickly to the sides can lead to muscle strain or injury as it does not provide the controlled, gradual stretch needed for safety and effectiveness. Pulling your chin to your chest isolates the movement, offering limited relief or range for the neck muscles. Similarly, bending the neck backward for five seconds does not effectively address lateral tension in the neck and can also increase the risk of discomfort or injury if done improperly. Thus, the most effective technique is the lateral stretch, which promotes healthy neck mobility.