During the 1960s, weightlifters and bodybuilders were the primary source for strength training methods, and their techniques were used by coaches to train athletes. In weight-training, it is the responsibility of trainers and coaches to provide the athlete with a program that produces the best results, consumes the least amount of time, and best prepares the athlete for competition. Strength training is an important part of the overall process of preparing an athlete for competition. At Pennsylvania State University, there are two rules observed for athletes developing neck muscles: (1) never exercise neck muscles before a game or practice; and (2) never perform an isometric or static contraction for the neck muscles. Athletes will develop maximum gains in strength in the least amount of time if proper attention is paid to rules stating that: (1) exercise must be in the full range; (2) muscles must be allowed to raise the weight; (3) lowering of weight must be emphasized; (4) athletes must exercise to the point of momentary muscular failure; and (5) exercise must be supervised. The team physician and trainer can help change coaches' methods for weight training. (CJ)