Wide Eye Opener
The wide eye opener is a bodyweight facial exercise targeting the orbicularis oculi and surrounding eye muscles. It involves opening the eyes as wide as possible without engaging the forehead to isolate and strengthen the muscles around the eyes.
How to do it
- Sit upright with your face relaxed and eyes in a neutral position.
- Without raising your eyebrows, open your eyes as wide as possible using only the muscles around the eyes.
- Hold the wide-open position for 5 seconds.
- Slowly relax the eye muscles back to a normal position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Form cues
- Keep your forehead completely still.
- Focus effort only on the muscles around your eyes.
- Open your eyes slowly and with control.
- Keep your facial muscles relaxed otherwise.
- Breathe steadily throughout the movement.
Breathing: Maintain a steady, rhythmic breath throughout the hold; do not hold your breath.
Common mistakes
- Raising the eyebrows causes unnecessary forehead wrinkles.
- Opening the mouth creates tension in the jaw.
- Moving too quickly prevents proper muscle activation.
- Holding your breath increases facial tension.
Muscles worked
Primary: facial muscles. Secondary: orbicularis oculi, frontalis.
Suggested sets & reps
Get fitter
3 sets × 12 repetitions, hold each for 5 seconds, rest 30s
Lose weight
3 sets × 10 repetitions, hold each for 5 seconds, rest 30s
Build muscle
3 sets × 15 repetitions, hold each for 5 seconds, rest 30s
Easier, harder & alternatives
Make it easier
Take care if…
- If you feel sharp pain in or around your eyes, stop immediately and rest.
- If you have recent eye surgery or eye health concerns, check with a professional before starting.
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
Should my forehead move?
No, your forehead should remain completely still to ensure the eye muscles are doing the work.
Can I do this exercise every day?
Yes, facial exercises are gentle and can be incorporated into your daily routine.
What if I feel tension in my jaw?
Focus on softening your jaw and tongue; if tension persists, reduce the intensity of the eye opening.