At what age does excercise begin to result in strength in boys and girls?

At birth.

I know a boy who was in an orphanage in a developing country until he was 6 months old. His neck muscles were weak probably because he hadn't had the freedom to crawl around; he was confined to a crib. Within a few weeks in an American home, his neck muscles strengthened.

this is the wrong answer it's not at birth

The age at which exercise begins to result in strength can vary slightly between boys and girls. However, it generally starts during puberty, which is the period of physical and sexual maturation that occurs between the ages of 10 and 14 in girls, and between 12 and 16 in boys.

During puberty, both boys and girls experience significant hormonal changes that contribute to the development of muscle strength. In boys, the increase in testosterone levels leads to muscle growth and strength gains. In girls, although testosterone levels also increase, they tend to remain lower than in boys, which results in smaller muscle gains.

However, it's important to note that the exact age at which strength gains occur can vary depending on various factors, including genetics, overall physical activity level, and individual differences. Some children may exhibit strength gains earlier or later than others.

To get a more accurate understanding of when exercise can start resulting in strength in boys and girls, it is recommended to consult with a pediatrician or a qualified fitness professional who can assess an individual's specific needs and provide guidance tailored to their age and development stage.