An apparatus for protecting against injuries to the head and neck includes a head harness; a body anchor component; and tensioners extending between and interconnecting the head harness and the body anchor component. The tensioners limit the range of movement of the head. Each tensioner is a composite band or strap having an elastic member and an inelastic member. An additional linking member in the connection between the tensioner and the body anchor component preferably has viscoelastic properties and cushions or dampens rapid acceleration of the tensioners during an impact to the head, such as when a tackle is made in football. The additional linking member preferably is a solid material with viscoelastic characteristics. In some embodiments, the apparatus is configured to be worn under a football helmet and shoulder pads.