The implementation of a neck strengthening exercise program in elite rugby union: A team case study over one season.

Objectives: To investigate the effect of a neck strengthening program on maximal isometric neck strength and incidence of head and neck injuries including concussion, and to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of the program within one professional men's rugby union team over one season.

Design: Pre- and post-intervention study.

Methods: A phased neck strengthening program was implemented in one rugby union team (n = 26 Forward Group; n = 13 Back Group) throughout the 2020 Super Rugby season, with maximal isometric neck strength measured at each training phase.

Neck strength and concussion prevalence in football and rugby athletes.

Objectives: To determine the maximal isometric neck strength of male and female rugby and football (soccer) athletes, and to investigate the relationship between neck strength and sport played, sex, age, anthropometric measurements and concussion history.

Design: Cross-sectional observational study.

Methods: In total, 358 (70% male) healthy football and rugby playing adolescents and adults participated.