What is the key cue for the Hundred Prep to avoid neck tension?

The key cue for the Hundred Prep to avoid neck tension is to keep the head aligned with the spine. This alignment ensures that the neck remains in a neutral position, reducing the risk of straining the muscles surrounding the cervical spine. By maintaining this alignment, practitioners can focus on engaging their core and stabilizing their pelvis and lower back without unnecessary tension in the neck area.

When the head is properly aligned with the spine, it allows for a more efficient and effective movement pattern that supports overall body coordination. This cue helps to encourage the use of the abdominal muscles to perform the exercises rather than over-relying on neck or shoulder muscles, which can lead to discomfort or injury.

Other cues, like looking up or lifting the shoulders higher, can inadvertently promote tension in the neck area rather than relaxing and elongating it. Similarly, rotating the head during the lift might strain the neck and disrupt the alignment needed for a safe and effective Hundred Prep. Therefore, focusing on keeping the head aligned with the spine is crucial for maintaining comfort and efficacy during this exercise.