Eight Weeks of Self-Resisted Neck Strength Training Improves Neck Strength in Age-Grade Rugby Union Players: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Greater neck strength is associated with fewer head and neck injuries. Neck-strengthening programs are commonly burdensome, requiring specialist equipment or significant time commitment, which are barriers to implementation.

Hypothesis

Completing a neck-strengthening program will increase isometric neck strength in age-group rugby players.

Study design

A pilot randomized controlled exercise intervention study.

Level of evidence

Level 2.

Methods

Twenty-eight U18 (under 18) male regional age-group rugby union players were randomized (intervention n =15/control n = 13). An 8-week exercise program was supervised during preseason at the regional training center. Control players continued their "normal practice," which did not include neck-specific

SUBMITTER: Attwood MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9214908 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jul-Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature