If you think tummy time is only for babies, think again. “Adult tummy time” is becoming a popular trend, especially on TikTok, where videos about it have millions of views.
What Is Adult Tummy Time?
Adult tummy time means lying on your stomach for a few minutes each day. Just like babies do tummy time to build strong neck and shoulder muscles, adults can use this simple position to help fix bad posture and ease neck and back pain caused by looking down at phones and computers for too long.
Leah Verebes, a physical therapist, explains that “tech neck” happens when your head leans forward too much, putting up to 60 pounds of pressure on your neck. This can cause muscle strain and joint pain.
How Does It Help?
Lying on your stomach forces your head and neck to lift up, which strengthens the muscles in the back of your neck. This helps reverse the forward-leaning posture many people develop from daily screen use.
Physical therapists say tummy time isn’t just a social media fad-it’s based on real science. It’s similar to exercises used in therapy to improve posture and reduce pain.
Who Should Be Careful?
Tummy time isn’t for everyone. People with certain back problems, pregnant women (especially later in pregnancy), or those with recent surgery should avoid it or check with a doctor first.
Start slowly, with just a few minutes a day, and don’t overdo it. Too much tummy time can cause discomfort or pain.
Other Tips to Fix Tech Neck
Tummy time helps, but it’s only part of the solution. Experts suggest:
- Look up often: Tilt your head back occasionally to stretch neck muscles.
- Raise your devices: Keep phones and laptops at eye level to avoid bending your neck down.
- Do posture exercises: Try “wall angels” or yoga poses like cobra and sphinx to strengthen your back.
- Take breaks: Move around every 30 to 60 minutes if you sit a lot.
- Use a standing desk: Changing positions helps reduce strain.
When to See a Professional
If neck or back pain affects your daily life or you feel numbness or tingling, see a doctor or physical therapist. Don’t rely on self-treatment if pain worsens.
Adult tummy time is an easy, no-equipment way to help your neck and back feel better. Adding it to your daily routine, along with good posture habits, can make a big difference in how you feel.
Read more:
- Recall Alert: Bread, Salads, Nuts, And Oats Pulled From Stores This Week
- New FDA Vaccine Chief Vinay Prasad: A Controversial Choice
- Measles Outbreak In West Texas Eases But Doctors Stay Watchful
