New Years is approaching! As you're setting your resolutions and goals for the year ahead, consider incorporating neck strength exercises into your fitness routine. Strong neck muscles are important for maintaining good posture, reducing the risk of neck injuries, and improving overall physical performance. Plus, adding neck exercises to your workouts can help you feel more confident and capable in your daily life. A great device that'll allow you to more seamlessly incorporate neck training into your routine is The Strong Neck, which is a fitness device that creates a pad between your head and a disc-weight while performing neck curls, side neck raises and neck extensions. It turns any 2" disc-weight into a neck strengthening system tailor-made to your level of fitness.
Here are a few neck strength exercises to try:
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Neck tilts: Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed and your chin parallel to the floor. Slowly tilt your head to the right, bringing your ear towards your shoulder. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly return to the starting position. Repeat on the left side. Do 10-12 reps on each side.
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Neck rotations: Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed and your chin parallel to the floor. Slowly turn your head to the right, bringing your chin towards your shoulder. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly return to the starting position. Repeat on the left side. Do 10-12 reps on each side.
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Neck extensions: Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed and your chin parallel to the floor. Slowly tilt your head back, bringing your chin towards the ceiling. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly return to the starting position. Do 10-12 reps.
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Neck flexions: Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed and your chin parallel to the floor. Slowly tilt your head down, bringing your chin towards your chest. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly return to the starting position. Do 10-12 reps.
It's important to start with a light weight (such as a small hand weight or can of food) and gradually increase the resistance as your neck muscles become stronger. Remember to keep your movements slow and controlled, and to never force your neck into an uncomfortable position.
Incorporating neck strength exercises into your fitness routine can help improve the overall health and function of your neck, as well as boost your overall physical performance. Make neck strength a part of your new year's resolution, and you'll be well on your way to a stronger, healthier you!