A simple household item could hold the key to tackling a double chin without resorting to expensive surgery or complex cosmetic treatments. A viral technique, shared by an experienced chiropractor, suggests that strengthening specific muscles with a tennis ball can help firm sagging skin and create a more defined jawline.
Targeting the Deep Muscles
Dr Michael Rowe, who has spent 15 years treating neck and spinal issues, has developed a method focusing on the deep muscles situated between the jaw and neck. His approach uses a tennis ball to provide targeted resistance, aiming to tone the area and enhance facial contours.
While results are not instantaneous, consistent practice is said to firm the neck and significantly improve overall posture. The technique has gained attention on social media, with many viewers expressing interest and sharing positive experiences.
The Step-by-Step Tennis Ball Routine
In a demonstration, Dr Rowe outlines the simple process. "Take your tennis ball and place it right underneath your chin," he instructs. "From there, press your chin into your chest as much as you can. You will feel a ton of muscles in the back of your neck start to fire."
He recommends holding this position for about five seconds, relaxing for another five, and repeating the exercise 10 to 15 times. "With each repetition, try to press down into it just a little bit more," he adds. This routine should be performed two to three times daily, with recovery time if soreness occurs.
Supporting Exercises for Enhanced Results
To complement the tennis ball hack, experts suggest additional movements that target the jaw, neck, and surrounding muscles:
- Straight Jaw Jut: Tilt your head back, thrust your lower jaw forward, hold for 10 seconds, and release. Repeat 10 to 15 times.
- Pucker Up: With head tilted back, purse your lips as if kissing the ceiling, hold for 5-10 seconds, and release. Complete 10 to 15 repetitions.
- Tongue Stretch: Open your mouth wide, extend your tongue toward your chin, hold for 10-15 seconds, and release. Do this five to 10 times.
- Neck Stretch: Tilt your head back, bring your lower lip over your upper lip, hold for five to 10 seconds, and relax. Repeat five to 10 times.
- Bottom Jaw Jut: Facing the ceiling, push your lower jaw forward as far as possible while keeping lips relaxed. Repeat five to 10 times.
The Role of Diet and Overall Wellness
While exercises are beneficial, experts like Dr Eric Berg emphasise that diet plays a crucial role in fat distribution around the neck. He points to high-carb foods and frequent snacking as contributors to double chin formation, recommending a low-carb diet and intermittent fasting to stabilise insulin levels and reduce fat storage.
Dr Berg also notes that stretching isolated neck muscles may not suffice; addressing the fascia—the connective tissue network—is key. Stretches that involve the entire facial structure can help release tightness and improve tone.
Managing Expectations for Realistic Outcomes
It is important to approach these techniques with realistic expectations:
- Muscle vs Fat: These exercises act like 'bicep curls for your neck,' firming and tightening the area to reduce sagging, but they do not spot-reduce fat in isolation.
- Total Wellness: For optimal results, combine the movements with a nutritious diet and regular cardiovascular exercise to lower overall body fat percentage.
- Results Timeline: Most users report noticing improvements in muscle tone within two to four weeks of consistent daily practice.
This holistic approach, blending targeted exercises with dietary adjustments, offers a practical and accessible method for those seeking to enhance their facial profile and boost confidence without invasive procedures.
