ABSTRACT
In 1979, Dawson evaluated a variety of fitness variables between Grand National stock car drivers and age-matched controls who did not participate in racing. He concluded that there was no difference in fitness variables between groups and stated race car drivers were not athletes. The neck contains essential structures that connect the head and trunk. From the base of the skull, the neck extends to the chest and serves as a conduit for the spinal cord, blood vessels, and spinal and cranial nerves. Supported by muscles, cervical vertebrae, intervertebral disks and ligaments, the neck provides a strong, stable and flexible framework. The rationale underpinning program design for training the neck can be approached in the same manner as other biomotor abilities for sport. For strength and conditioning coaches, sport scientists, and other professionals working with athletes, it takes effort to understand the biomotor abilities required to perform well and plan how to develop these within the athlete’s schedule.
