The aim of this study was to investigate the strength and anthropometric characteristics of the cervical spine in elite male Rugby Union (RU) players across different positional categories. Forty RU players were assigned to one of two groups according to their positional role (Forward or Backline). Participants underwent maximal isometric strength (neck flexion and neck extension), and anthropometric (neck length and neck girth) assessments. Forwards were found to have significantly larger neck girth (p<0.001) and a significantly longer neck (p<0.05) when compared to backline players (Forwards girth 43.8 ± 2.2 cm and length 14.4 ± 1.2 cm; Backline girth 40.1 ± 1.75 cm and length 13.4 ± 1.2 cm). Forwards also exhibited significantly higher maximum isometric strength levels in both flexion (p<0.01) and extension (p<0.001) than backline players and a significantly lower flexion to extension ratio. Strength and anthropometric measurements from the neck have been shown to be related to the positional category and should be considered as integral assessment components for programmes aimed at performance enhancement and injury reduction protocols in RU. The findings of this investigation suggest that due to a low flexion:extension ratio, the neck strength training of forwards should be supplemented with additional flexion work. Backline players should be equally focussed on increasing flexion and extension neck strength.
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