We often forget that the neck is a muscle that can be trained. Strengthening your neck can have a positive effect when it comes to injury prevention, relieving neck and back pain, and increasing range of motion.
It’s hard to get a proper neck training without any form of equipment. In fact, it’s probably the most difficult body part to effectively target for those that adhere to a strict calisthenics program.
The best way to train your neck is to use some kind of neck harness. Usually, it is a set of nylon straps that wraps around your head which comes with a hook that you can attach to weights. With the proper equipment, it’s simple to pack on muscles around the neck. Find out the best neck exercise machines below, alongside more details on how to train your neck correctly.
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Neck Exercising Machine Buyer’s Guide
Need a quick primer on what to look out for when buying a neck exercise machine? Check out our three most important considerations below.
Versatility
Having a versatile and functional neck trainer will allow you to train the neck with different movement paths. According to Technogym the movement of the neck includes left-right, protract-retraction, flexion-extension, lateral flexion, and neck rotation. Whereas, in some pieces, you’ll be limited to just one movement, so choosing the right equipment will help you develop a well-rounded neck strength.
Comfort
Generally, wearing a neck machine will not be the most comfortable thing in the world. The majority will be crafted with nylon straps with padding inside, and an adjustable strap for more comfort and weight distribution. Be aware that it may not fit people with big heads.
Adjustable Straps
The job of the strap is to accommodate your head size so that you can utilize the neck exercise machine. However, I saw in the reviews that if you are tall with a big head, it may not fit you, and for some, it can be too large that the strap runs across the top of the forehead ad cause the harness to ride low on your forehead. Do measure your head size and see if the strap will accommodate your head.
Best Exercise Equipment For Neck
1. The Iron Neck
Price: $224.99-$499.99
Product link: https://www.iron-neck.com/
Specifications: 360 degrees track that allows you to rotate in place, interchangeable front pads to ensure a perfect fit for everyone, inflate with AirFit Technology so the rear pad has firmly grabbed a hold of your head, and clip chin strap
Pros:
- Versatile as it gives you the freedom to target the neck from all angles
- Eliminate pain
- Rehab neck injuries
- Increase range of motion
Cons:
- Expensive, the price range would be out of reach for many gym users
- Big and bulky, not ideal for people with limited storage space
The Iron Neck is one of the best equipment in the market available to train the neck. It is versatile because it gives you the freedom to move in a safe and controlled manner, developing strength in every position and improving your range of motion to your neck.
What makes the Iron Neck so good is that the team is constantly improving their device by listening to their client’s recommendations and feedback. For example: clients complained about the device being heavy, and Iron Neck listened and upgraded their device: Iron Neck 3.0 is 33% lighter than its predecessors.
There are three models to choose from: Pro (variable friction dial, allowing you to adjust the amount of friction applied when turning your head), Varsity (steady friction dial), and Starter (no rotational resistance). Get a discount by using coupon code: “GYMLESSFAMILY”.
We wrote an Iron Neck Review Article covering unboxing, honest thoughts and reviews, the buying process, and how it works. Give it a read to learn more about this product in further detail.
2. DMoose Neck Harness
Price: $20.79
Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3SwiLtN
Specifications: extra heavy D-rings to support weights, stainless steel chain, reinforced stitching, flexible and breathable neoprene, quick fastening strap
Pros:
- Very well designed with high-quality materials
- Good after-purchase customer service
- Multiple color options
- Cheap
Cons:
- Not the most comfortable headwear
- Limited range of motion
- Require weight to use
This neck-lifting equipment is portable, convenient, and easy to use. The DMoose is designed with high-quality nylon straps and padding for your comfort. It will help to build a stronger neck and upper back to reduce everyday neck pain and the risk of injury. The stainless-steel chain supports your weight and provides additional balance and stability to your workouts.
3. Hawk Sports Neck Harness
Price: $15.99
Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3DAuvXC
Specifications: D-rings and adjustable side hooks, 30” adjustable chain, adjustable hook and loop velcro head and neck straps, neoprene padded head, and forehead for comfort, heavy-duty stitching.
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- High-quality neoprene padding for high comfort level
- Good price point
Cons:
- Not the most comfortable headwear
- Limited range of motion
- Require weight to use
The Hawk Sport neck harness is one of the cheapest options to train your neck. This plate-loaded equipment helps to stabilize the neck and spine during weight lifting. The 4MM thick neoprene padding makes the ideal muscle training equipment for lifting harnesses and can withstand weights up to 150lbs. Maximum quality and minimum price, now that’s what I call a bargain!
4. Jayefo Sports Neck Harness
Price: $9.99
Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3DBw9Zc
Specifications: 5mm padded strong and soft neoprene, holds up to 200lbs, strong hook and loop velcro, heavy-duty 31” steel chain, breathable
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Highly portable as the harness itself comes in its plastic zip pouch which is ideal for keeping your gym bag tidy
- Good price point
Cons:
- Possibility of losing the velcro connection for the back of the head when using heavyweight
- The D-ring chain rotates through the loop, so one might be one way while the other is the opposite which makes the chains uneven and uncomfortable against your face
- Require weight to use
This neck harness is also plate loaded and is the cheapest one on my list. Say goodbye to neck stiffness and build a strong neck like Mike Tyson with Jayefo Sports Neck Harness. This product is comfortable on the head, suitable for home use, and small enough to take with you to the gym. It has adjustable straps which should fit most head sizes. The material is thick and the stitching seems strong. It’s not perfect, but it’s great neck exercise equipment.
5. Iron Neck Alpha Training Harness
Price: $44.99
Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3xv4B3O
Specifications: Extra-heavy D-rings, durable nylon tether, reinforced stitching, flexible, breathable neoprene, and quick fastening strap
Pros:
- Made with high-quality materials that give a premium feel
- Comes with a lightweight black nylon strap instead of a metal chain
- Versatile as it comes with 4 side attachment that allows you to target almost all angles of the neck muscle.
Cons:
- One size fits most
- Expensive
The Iron Neck Alpha Training is one of the most comfortable and durable neck harnesses of its kind. This equipment is designed to get your neck strong, and it comes with a 40” nylon strap and two carabiners to give your neck an endless workout.
The reinforced stitching will give the head harness much more sturdiness and support extra weights. Also, the breathable neoprene helps to reduce sweat and gives the harness comfort and stability during use.
The Takeaways: Best Neck Harness
There are a few sports that require a strong neck. For example, MMA, boxing, and motorsports. With those undertakings, your neck has to be strong to absorb the impact of g-forces and the recoil of blunt impact. Even if you don’t do these sports you should train your neck to release tension and stiffness, and prevent neck and cervical spine injuries.
If you’re serious about getting a bigger, thicker, and stronger neck, I highly recommend you get the Iron Neck. It has a strong reputation behind the brand and its high-quality material and straps will ensure that you’ll get your money’s worth.
Many people often forget there are other important home gym tools out there, to have a complete home gym set-up, I suggest you check out these essential home gym equipment:
- Top 5 Best Doorway Pull-Up Bar (2024 Buyer’s Guide)
- Top 10 Dip Bars For Home (Buyer’s Guide 2024)
- The Ultimate Guide For Buying Gymnastic Rings
I’m Pat Chadwick, a qualified Level 2 and Level 3 calisthenics coach and certified personal trainer from London, England. I have over six years of experience training students specifically in the art of calisthenics. I’ve competed in various UK competitions, including the Kalos Stenos Championships, where I achieved third place in the lightweight category. My passion is highlighting the beauty of calisthenics as an authentic and pure form of body expression. I believe that everyone has the potential to become a champion of their body and mind, and that calisthenics opens the door to personal empowerment.
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