Expert-Recommended Chair Exercises to Tone Turkey Neck for Individuals Over 60

These effective exercises can help firm up neck muscles and combat the dreaded “turkey neck.”

“Turkey neck” is a term often used to describe the sagging skin that appears under the chin as we age. This is primarily due to the natural decline in elastin and collagen, essential proteins for skin elasticity. Contributing factors can also include excessive sun exposure, genetics, and substantial weight loss. While aging might seem unfair at times, there are steps you can take to improve your appearance. If you’re ready to tackle this concern, we have five chair exercises designed to reduce the appearance of turkey neck more efficiently than traditional gym equipment for those over 60.

“For those over 60, chair exercises can be more beneficial for smoothing the ‘turkey neck’ area—targeting the platysma muscle and surrounding skin—compared to standard gym machines,” explains Eric North, The Happiness Warrior, a wellness speaker and coach dedicated to redefining the aging process with strength and emotional vitality. “These exercises focus on high-repetition, targeted movements that stimulate the delicate muscles around the neck and jawline without the risk of joint strain or overexertion. Unlike gym machinery that typically focuses on larger muscle groups, chair exercises isolate specific areas, promoting muscle tightening and improved blood flow.”

By directly engaging the platysma muscle, which often contributes to neck sagging, chair exercises offer greater flexibility in movement than traditional gym machines, making them a practical alternative for older adults.

Chair exercises directly engage the platysma muscle, which is the culprit behind neck sagging. They provide more freedom of movement compared to gym machines.

“While these exercises can tone the underlying muscles, they may not significantly tighten excess or ‘saggy’ skin,” North explains. “Always perform these movements slowly and stop immediately if you feel sharp pain or dizziness.”

Chin Tucks

“Chin tucks realign the spine and strengthen the deep neck flexors,” North tells us.

1. Begin sitting tall and looking straight ahead.
2. Gradually pull your head straight back as if you’re about to make a “double chin,” while keeping your chin level.
3. Hold for 2 to 6 seconds, repeating 8 to 12 times.

Isometric Neck Flexion

“This exercise strengthens the front neck muscles (flexors),” North says.

1. Begin sitting tall and place the heels of your hands against your forehead.
2. Press your head forward against your hands, using the resistance of your hands to keep your head from moving forward.
3. Hold for 6 seconds, repeating for 8 to 12 reps.

Neck Extensions

“Neck extensions tone the muscles under the chin and along the front of the neck,” North says.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

1. Begin sitting tall.
2. Slowly tilt your head back so your gaze shifts up toward the sky.
3. To achieve a deeper “tightening” effect, keep a closed mouth or move your lower jaw over your upper teeth.
4. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds, repeating 10 times.

Isometric Side Presses

“This exercise tightens the lateral (side) muscles of the neck,” North says.

1. Begin sitting tall.
2. Place your right hand against the right side of your head above your ear.
3. Press your head against your hand while using the resistance of your hand to maintain a still head.
4. Hold for 6 seconds, repeating on both sides for 8 to 12 reps.

Shoulder Shrugs and Rolls

“This move relieves tension in the trapezius and supports the base of the neck for better posture,” North explains.

1. Begin sitting tall.
2. Lift your shoulders up toward your ears as high as you’re able to.
3. Roll your shoulders backward and down.
4. Perform 10 to 15 reps.