An isometric neck strengthening program does not improve neck strength in elite women's football-code athletes: A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of an isometric neck strengthening program to improve isometric neck strength in elite women's football-code athletes. DesignRandomised controlled trial. MethodsElite female soccer (n = 10) and Australian football (n = 30) players were randomised into either a control (n = 20) or experimental (n = 20) group for a 12-week intervention study during their respective seasons. While both groups undertook their prescribed strength and conditioning programs, the experimental group also performed isometric neck strengthening exercises three times per week prior to training. Isometric neck strength of the extensors, flexors, lateral flexors, and rotators were assessed pre, mid (Week 7), and post (Week 13) intervention with a hand-held dynamometer during early to mid-competition season. A mixed design analysis of variance was performed for statistical analysis. ResultsNo significant group-by-time interactions in isometric neck strength were observed. All strength variables displayed a significant change over time throughout the 12-week period (p < 0.05). No significant between group differences in isometric neck strength variables were observed except for lateral left flexion (F(1, 38) =5.064, p = 0.030, η2p = 0.117). ConclusionsThe addition of isometric neck strengthening exercises did not improve neck strength beyond a standard strength and conditioning program for elite women's football-code athletes. While this specific program may not improve neck strength in elite women's football-code athletes, further investigation is needed to determine whether sport-specific neck strength exercises may improve neck strength or if lower-level competition athletes may still benefit from an isometric neck strengthening program.