The Influence of Body Mass, Training Age and Fighting Stance on Isometric Neck Strength Symmetry of Male Amateur Boxers

This study used 102 participants to analyse the influence that body mass, training experience and fighting stance had on the isometric neck strength of male amateur boxers. A MANCOVA analysed allometriclly scaled isometric neck strength data, in flexion (FLX), extension (EXT), left lateral flexion (LLF) and right lateral flexion (RLF) across 10 weight divisions. Training experience groups was set as the covariate. A second MANOVA assessed absolute neck strength scores against the boxer’s preferred fighting stance. Results across weight divisions highlighted a significant difference in FLX (p = .02) only. No differences were noted between training groups. A Pearson’s r produced significant weak negative correlations in FLX and lateral flexion (p = .05). The fighting stance observation highlighted a significant difference (p < .01) in LLF between southpaws and orthodox fighters. Ratio trends also highlighted that southpaws have stronger RLF and orthodox boxers had stronger in LLF. Conclusions: The neck strength of boxers differs among the weight divisions, but only in FLX. General trends indicate heavier boxers have marginally weaker necks. Training age has no impact on neck strength but preferred fighting stance does, especially in lateral flexion. Recommendations: Further research is required on neck responses of the boxer when receiving a punch. By understanding this, practitioners will be able to best utilise the lateral flexion finding. Until such information is available, develop isometric neck strength in FLX and bi-lateral flexion, whilst mainlining strength symmetry is suggested.