Best Neck Trainer [2023] – Machines & Devices

A strong neck is paramount for combat sports. It helps you finish takedowns, resist chokes, maintain positions, and reduce the risk of concussions, not to mention common injuries and soreness.

A strong and mobile neck is achieved only through deliberate training. You can do a few exercises, most of which require some form of equipment.

Some are all-in-one training devices; others are one-trick ponies. I've tested them all and will share my experience so you can make a well-informed choice.

Best Neck Trainers

Iron Neck Pro 3.0

It’s easy to pick the Iron Neck as the best neck training equipment. It’s by far the most versatile trainer on the market and the only one that truly allows a 360° range of motion, which is vital for combat sports.

The halo device from Iron Neck is unique and comes in a few versions. The Pro version is the best and most versatile, adding a friction dial to increase rotational resistance.

The linear resistance of the device is provided by the elastic band attached directly to the device, while the friction dial increases rotational resistance.

The ability to apply a rotational force makes the Iron Neck much better than the other options. It allows you to do 360 spins, diagonal movements, and figure eights.

My favorite exercise is the Left and Right, one of the best ways to alleviate headaches caused by stiff and sore neck muscles from training or sleeping at a weird angle.

The device is exceptionally sturdy and made from high-quality materials. Despite being somewhat heavy, the 3.0 version of the neck trainer is comfortable because it has a few adjustment options, ensuring everyone will get a perfect fit, and the device won't move around during neck strengthening exercises.

The Iron Neck also comes with three attachments for the resistance bands, making it possible to attach them to poles and trees outside or a door if you use it at home.

The only flaw of the Iron Neck is its hefty price, but unlike other equipment, which are simple harnesses or even bands, you are getting a complex device that is more versatile than all the others combined.

You can read our full in-depth breakdown in our Iron Neck 3.0 review.

Iron Neck Alpha Plus Neck Harness

If the Iron Neck device is out of your budget, the company also offers the best neck harness on the market, the Alpha Plus. What makes the Alpha Plus better than other harnesses are the 4-way D rings.

They allow you to attach a resistance band to them and do various isometrics with the neck harness, something not possible without the rings.

Of course, the primary use of a neck harness is heavy-loaded neck extensions, and the Alpha Plus is perfect for this purpose, But the added versatility sets it apart from the competition.

The next benefit of this harness is its high adjustability. Unlike other inexpensive neck harnesses that scrape your ears, there is no discomfort since the material is so soft.

This harness wraps neatly over your ears and is comfortable even when heavier weights are attached.

The head strap is a new addition to previous versions of the Iron Neck harness, which allows you to raise or lower the harness. This is an excellent feature, further increasing adjustability and comfort.

Quality and durability-wise, I have found no flaws, and the materials used feel sturdy. The stitching is embedded within the harness, meaning it won't unravel with use. Overall, the Iron Neck Alpha Plus neck harness is perfect and the most versatile and adjustable on the market.

The price is high compared to other offerings, but I guarantee if you buy this one, you won't need to replace it anytime soon.

You can find our full in-depth breakdown in our Iron Neck Alpha Neck Harness review.

SPUD INC Neck Harness

Spud Inc. is a good choice if you want to do heavy-loaded neck extensions without spending much money. Spud Inc harnesses are well-valued in the strength training community for their reliable durability, high quality of production, and soft feel.

The construction is simple, featuring a strong canvas, Velcro, and a sturdy chain. But the materials are high quality, built to last, and withstand heavy weights. Not only is the material very strong (mine has held together for 10 years), but it has a soft enough feel to it.

The circumference is also adjustable, allowing it to fit all sizes of heads. Unlike the Alpha Plus harness, though, the depth is not adjustable. In addition, I’ve seen some reviews complaining of ergonomic issues, but if you want a sturdy harness on a budget, Spud Inc. is a solid choice.

The Strong Neck Device

The Strong Neck is a simple, clever device to aid neck training. One of the most common ways to build neck strength and size is by doing neck curls, and side raises while lying on a bench with a weight plate on your head. The Strong Neck is a comfortable and easy-to-use way to hold and grip the weight.

The Strong Neck device is a small pad that sits between the weight and your head, instead of having to fold towels and wonder how to hold the weight. The device has a grip handle and a soft pad on the underside.

As simple as this seems, it can be a game changer in providing the perfect balance in each position. It creates a much more efficient loading pattern than holding a weight plate on a towel.

It is not a standalone device, and you will need weights, but the low price and small size mean there are no drawbacks to just putting the Strong Neck in your gym bag and using it to make neck training more comfortable and efficient.

Resistance Bands

Resistance bands are a popular neck training equipment for good reason. They are cheap, easy to come by, and easy to use. Additionally, they are used for many other training needs, and you likely already have some bands, unlike a harness, which is a neck-only device.

Resistance bands are good for isometric holds, protractions, and retractions (chin tucks). Depending on the thickness of the band and the distance from the post, you can regulate the resistance level. You can even do lateral flexion with resistance bands.

The low price, availability, and versatility make resistance bands a must-have for everyone's strength training, regardless of specific goals. 

What To Look For In A Neck Trainer

Versatility

A versatile neck training device can train the neck in all movement patterns. A complete neck training program must include isometric holds, flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation.

Some pieces of equipment allow training in certain planes of movement; others are limited to just one. Naturally, the more versatile equipment is usually more expensive.

Adjustability

Neck training devices are attached to the head and must be adjustable to accommodate different sizes of heads.

Cheap neck harnesses, for example, cannot be adjusted, making them unusable for some people. If you are buying a nonadjustable strap, at least measure the circumference of your head and see if the harness will fit.

Comfort

Wearing neck training equipment often looks like a torture device, so comfort is not a primary concern. However, the equipment must still be comfortable enough not to dissuade you from using it altogether.

Summary

The Iron Neck is the best neck training equipment because it allows neck training from all possible angles. But the hefty price is not for everyone, meaning many of you would like something cheaper.

Neck harnesses let you do heavy extensions, while The Strong Neck makes doing neck curls much more pleasant and efficient.

And if you want something other than a dedicated piece of equipment solely for neck training, your regular resistance bands can also do an excellent job of strengthening this crucial body part.