Isokinetic Exercise

There are three new types of exercises, which have become very popular. They are Isometric exercises, Isotonic exercises and Isokinetic exercises. However, these should not be used interchangeably. This exercise was first known as accommodating resistance exercise. This term was first introduced by Hislop and Perrine in 1967. The resistance, which is now used is variable in proportion to the change in muscular capability at every point in the range of motion. The variation of resistance is controlled, so that at any given time, resistance equals the product of the muscular strength.

What is Isokinetic Exercise?

These are exercises, which are performed with a specialized apparatus, which provides variable resistance to a movement. This ensures, that no matter how much effort is exerted, the exercise movements take place at a constant speed. These exercises are often used to test and improve muscular strength and endurance, more so after an injury. They work on the idea, that the highest degree of muscle contraction is to be achieved, but at the same time there should be free range of movements in the limbs.

Types of Isokinetic Exercise

There are two main types of machines,which are used to perform these exercises. The first type is known as a Dynamometer. This machine is very familiar to the clinicians. Here the speed is controlled, while resistance is variable according to the amount of force, that is applied throughout the range of movement. Immaterial, of the force applied by the individual, the speed of the exercise does not change. Hence, the motion is kept at a predetermined velocity.

The second type of exercise utilizes change in the moment arm of the selected resistance which coincides with the change in moment arm of the muscle effort and also the change in tension due to muscle length change. The resistance, is hence able to take care of the continuous changes in muscle force, that occur throughout the range of movement of the muscles. The changes made to the resistance arms on the machine are determined and pre-set to coincide with the average strength curves for various joint actions.

However, these exercises need not be done only with these machines. They can also be done using the stationary cycle. When you do this exercise with the cycle, you will only allow a certain number of revolutions per minute. This helps in setting the level of resistance and also prevents the individual from pedaling very fast. After you get used to the exercise, you can accommodate more resistance and the setting can be altered.

Isokinetic Exercise Benefits

There are a number of benefits, which can be derived from these exercises.

• Since it is possible to control the resistance, it is possible to set the level of resistance, in order to challenge the body, but not strain or pull the muscles of the arms or legs.
• With these exercises, the benefits derived from the workout are maximized.
• The other benefit is that, they promote the release of endorphins into the blood stream. Many times, it is noted, that people are fatigued after a workout, but due to the release of endorphins after these exercises the person will feel rejuvenated and energetic.
• The range of motion increases considerably after making these exercises a part of your daily workout schedule.
• Although these exercises, do not directly target the abdomen, chest or buttocks, these areas do benefit indirectly, when the exercises are performed regularly.

To sum it up, medical dictionary states: Isokinetic exercise is a dynamic muscle activity, which is performed at a constant angular velocity, where the torque and tension remain constant while the muscles shorten and lengthen.