Presentation description
This presentation outlines a systematic, evidence-informed framework for neck strength profiling, prescription, and progression in high-risk collision and combat sports. Drawing on UFC competition data, head acceleration event (HAE) research, and applied case studies, it integrates biomechanical principles, neurocognitive considerations, and force–time characteristics to optimize trunk–neck–head coupling for both injury risk mitigation and performance readiness. Emphasis is placed on objective assessment, ratio-based interpretation, and targeted training strategies aligned with competition demands.
Learning objectives
- Critically evaluate neck strength profiling metrics and ratio targets in relation to head kinematics and injury risk.
- Apply a systematic approach to neck training that integrates absolute strength, relative strength, RFD, stiffness, and neuromuscular control.
- Interpret head acceleration event data to inform programming decisions within combat sport contexts.
About the presenter
Gavin Pratt is the Senior Director of Strength and Conditioning at the Ultimate Fighting Championship, with direct access to longitudinal UFC competition and training datasets. His work integrates biomechanical research, applied profiling, and system-level programming to address complex injury-performance interfaces, particularly within cervical spine demands in grappling and striking sports.
CEU information
Physical Therapy CEUs
California: Our organization is an approved provider of continuing education for Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants in California (CA) by Redefine Health Education, a recognized approval agency of the Physical Therapy Board of CA.
Massachusetts: Our organization is an approved provider of continuing education for APTA Massachusetts.
Courses approved by other state boards in the following jurisdictions are likely accepted for licensure credit based on the state regulation:
AL | AK | AR | CO | CT | DE | GA | HI | ID | IN | IA | KS | KY | ME | MA | MI | MO | MT | NE | NH | NC | ND | OR | PA | RI | SC | SD | TN | UT | VT | VA | VI | WA | WI | WY
Courses approved by other APTA chapters in the following jurisdictions are likely accepted for licensure credit based on the state regulation:
AZ | DC | MD | MS | NM
Please reach out to your state licensing board to confirm the currency and accuracy of this information. If you have a specific question about CEU approval for this course in your state, please direct your inquiry to info@redefinehealthed.com.
The following states are not pre-approved: FL, LA, IL, MN, NV, NY, NJ, OH, OK, TX, WV
Participants licensed in states not pre-approved may file for individual approval using the instructions on this document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uINVSr-O7xE95OLRA5FjLYeAB3BjwxfS/edit
Athletic Training CEUs
Sportsmith (P12247) is approved by the Board of Certification, Inc. to provide continuing education for Athletic Trainers. All programs are eligible for Category A CE. ATCs are responsible for claiming only those hours actually spent in educational programming.
Contact hours
- Reading time = 10 minutes
- Video length = 44 minutes
- Quiz = 10 minutes
- Total contact hours (rounded down to nearest 0.25 hr) = 1.00
How to receive your certificate
- Watch the full video below. When you are within 10 seconds of the end, a download box will appear in the blue box below. When you click that button your certificate will be automatically downloaded
- Complete the competency assessment
- Complete the course evaluation
Failure to complete the competency assessment and course evaluation will void your certificate.
Competency assessment
Please complete this competency document prior to downloading your certificate
Course evaluation
Please complete this course evaluation prior to downloading your certificate