Developing Strong Necks

The neck provides support and stability, facilitating a range of movements.

The major neck muscles, such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalenes, and trapezius, play an important role in various activities and sports. Athletes that participate in contact sports like football, rugby, and combat sports heavily rely on strong neck muscles to absorb impact forces and protect against potential injuries. Now, this does not guarantee the prevention of concussions, as injuries are very complex… but getting stronger muscles certainly won’t hurt overall.

Contrary to popular misconception, strengthening the neck muscles does not cause sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a complex sleep disorder characterized by breathing interruptions during sleep. Its underlying causes are many, and they include factors such as obesity, airway obstruction, and anatomical features. While excess weight around the neck area can contribute to airway narrowing, targeted neck muscle training can provide benefits by enhancing postural alignment, improving airway patency, and supporting proper breathing mechanics during sleep.

It is important to note that neck muscle training should be approached with care and under proper guidance. Gradual progression in load & repetition is advised, and a balanced exercise program are essential to minimize the risk of injury and maximize results.

By increasing our understanding of neck muscle anatomy, function, and the sports that benefit from their strength, we can ultimately enhance our health & performance, as well as get away from old myths that sorround specific areas of our body!

If you want to develop some strong necks, then adding some direct, isolation work can be a good idea. Nothing fancy, as loaded flexion/side flexion and extension can all work great.