WORKOUT FOR A STRONG NECK

WORKOUT FOR BUILDING A STRONG NECK

What is the best workout for building a strong neck? A strong neck can be a necessity in some high contact sports. Here are some great workouts, tips, benefits, and more to having a stronger neck. Learn more.

A stronger neck can and does lower the risk of everyday neck pain. Like I mentioned before, I'm sure you've woken up with a stiff neck one or two times and wow, does it ever make other routine actions difficult sometimes. Luckily, building up a stronger neck can help reduce these aptly named "pains in the neck."

Having a stronger neck can reduce the risk of neck injury (and central nervous system trauma), in sports and unexpected accidents in vehicles, or tripping and falling even.

Sure, the construction of your "chin" is a big determining factor on how easy you get "KO'd," but if you are rocked with a hard punch, a strong neck can prevent your head from spinning sideways to quick and can greatly absorb the impact - reducing transfer to your head. Brain trauma is a SERIOUS issue, so that should be motivation enough.

I'm sure many of us have woken up in the morning with a stiff neck. Have you ever wondered why the pain is not only felt in the neck, but also can spread into the trapezius (traps) muscles, and the deltoids (shoulders)? All these muscles contribute to the neck area we refer to. As supporting muscle groups, these should also be trained to increase neck strength.

The most important thing to remember when getting into neck workouts is DO NOT try to lift beyond your physical limits. Sure, the same goes for workouts and exercises for any muscle group, but neck injuries are among the worst, and can cause the most inconvenience and pain.

Always start with adequate stretching before adding weighted resistance. Stretching your neck muscles will prepare your muscles for resistance, and can alone strengthen your neck. They are also important to monitor your range of motion.

If your range of motion is less than normal, do not force the movement or use resistance. Sometimes through various stretches you can increase your range of motion though. Consult your MD or DC for professional advice if you cannot.

Hold each of these stretches, at the point of tension, for at least 8 full seconds. Repeat at least twice.