Temple Press
The temple press is a bodyweight facial exercise targeting the temporalis muscle. It involves placing fingers at the temples and clenching the teeth to feel and strengthen the muscles along the side of the head.
How to do it
- Sit upright with your face relaxed.
- Place the fingertips of both hands on your temples, applying gentle pressure.
- Slowly clench your back teeth together to engage the temporalis muscles beneath your fingertips.
- Hold the clenched position for 5 seconds.
- Slowly release the clench and relax the muscles.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Form cues
- sit tall with shoulders relaxed
- place fingers gently on temples
- clench teeth slowly
- feel the muscle contract under fingers
- release tension gradually
Breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose as you prepare, and exhale slowly while you clench your teeth.
Common mistakes
- pressing too hard, which may cause discomfort
- clenching teeth too aggressively, which can strain the jaw joint
- holding your breath, which prevents full muscle relaxation
Muscles worked
Primary: facial muscles. Secondary: temporalis.
Suggested sets & reps
Get fitter
3 sets × 10 reps, 5-second hold, 30s rest
Lose weight
3 sets × 10 reps, 5-second hold, 30s rest
Build muscle
3 sets × 12 reps, 5-second hold, 45s rest
Easier, harder & alternatives
Make it easier
Make it harder
Alternatives
Take care if…
- If you have a history of TMJ or jaw pain, check with a professional before starting.
- If you feel sharp pain in your jaw or temples, ease off or stop the movement immediately.
General educational guidance, not medical advice. Stop on sharp pain and check with a qualified professional if unsure.
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Start free →Frequently asked questions
Where should I feel the temple press?
You should feel a gentle activation in the muscles at the sides of your head, near your temples.
Can I do this exercise every day?
Yes, facial exercises are generally gentle enough to be performed daily, provided you do not experience any discomfort.
What if I feel pain in my jaw?
If you feel sharp pain in your jaw, stop immediately and reduce the intensity of the clench or consult a professional.