Methods for testing and training neck strength with Gavin Pratt

Dec 7, 2023

Gavin Pratt, Director of Strength and Conditioning at the UFC Performance Institute, shares insights on testing and training neck strength for UFC fighters. He discusses the importance of neck training in preventing concussions and injuries, and highlights the specific exercises and equipment used at the institute. Gavin also explores cutting-edge testing protocols and the integration of technology for measuring and monitoring training effectiveness. The podcast explores the role of neck strength in other sports and the ongoing research in determining optimal training methods.

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

Introduction

00:00 • 3min

Discussing Background and Facilities with Gavin Pratt

02:50 • 3min

Testing and Training Neck Strength

06:04 • 19min

Neck Strength, Concussion Risk, and Training Methods

24:56 • 4min

Analyzing Athletes' Neck Strength Deficiencies

28:36 • 17min

Exploring Other Sports and Their Influence on Neck Strengthening

45:18 • 4min

In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob welcomes Gavin Pratt, the Director of Strength and Conditioning at the UFC Performance Institute.

This conversation offers an exclusive look into the world of neck strength training and testing protocols for elite UFC fighters. Gavin Pratt, with his extensive background in strength and conditioning, delves into the critical role of neck strength in the sport of mixed martial arts. He shares his expert insights on the unique challenges faced by UFC fighters and the innovative approaches employed at the UFC Performance Institute to enhance neck strength and prevent injuries. Gavin details the frequency, location and mechanisms behind neck injuries suffered across the UFC, highlighting the importance of more dedicated research and innovation in this area.

Listeners will discover the importance of neck training in mitigating the risks of concussions and neck injuries, which are prevalent in combat sports. Gavin discusses the specific exercises and equipment used in the institute, including the incorporation of tools like the iron neck, and how these are tailored to meet the demands of a UFC fighter's training regimen.

The podcast also explores the cutting-edge testing protocols used to measure and monitor the effectiveness of these training methods. Gavin sheds light on the integration of technology in testing, such as the use of instrumented mouthguards and biomechanical analysis, to gather data on the forces exerted on fighters during training and competition.

This episode is not just an insight into the world of UFC strength and conditioning but also a valuable resource for coaches, trainers, and sports scientists interested in understanding and applying advanced neck strength training techniques.

Main talking points:

Emphasis on neck strength for fighter safety.
Utilizing instrumented mouthguards to detect impacts.
Neck injury mechanisms in mixed martial arts.
Specific exercises for neck strengthening.
Iron neck and other specialized equipment use.
UFC's research initiatives and findings.
Testing protocols for neck strength.
Neurocognitive training integration in sports