Seated Head Harness Neck Resistance
Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
head harness Category
strength Primary Muscles

An isolation exercise that uses a weighted neck harness to strengthen the neck muscles through a downward flexion movement against resistance.
Instructions
- Place a neck strap on the floor at the end of a flat bench. Once you have selected the weights, sit at the end of the flat bench with your feet wider than shoulder width apart. Your toes should be pointed out.
- Slowly move your torso forward until it is almost parallel with the floor. Using both hands, securely position the neck strap around your head. Tip: Make sure the weights are still lying on the floor to prevent any strain on the neck. Now grab the weight with both hands while elevating your torso back until it is almost perpendicular to the floor. Note: Your head and torso needs to be slightly tilted forward to perform this exercise.
- Now place both hands on top of your knees. This is the starting position.
- Slowly lower your neck down until your chin touches the upper part of your chest while breathing in.
- While exhaling, bring your neck back to the starting position.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Tips
- Keep movements slow and controlled to avoid strain on the delicate neck muscles.
- Do not use excessive weight; light to moderate loads are appropriate for neck training.
- Keep both hands on your knees for stability and to prevent compensatory body movement.
- Start with low weight to acclimate your neck to this movement pattern.
- This is an advanced exercise; perform it only if you have prior neck training experience.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
Lying Neck Curl
Learn more about lying neck curl beginner strength
intermediate strength
Lying Neck Extension (Weighted)
Learn more about lying neck extension (weighted) intermediate strength
Machine Neck Flexion
Learn more about machine neck flexion beginner strength
Neck Flexion (Cable)
Learn more about neck flexion (cable) beginner strength