wfs@mgweed.UUCP (07/21/83)
* Isokinetic Exercise(Part 1) *
A training called isokinetic exercise; how does this differ from
weight machines-and how effective is it ? A Harvey Kurland, M.S., is
Director of Physiology at the National Athletic Health Institute of
Inglewood, Cal.,has extensive expeirence in boxing, aikido and tai chi
chuan, and has written numerous articles on health, fittness and
sports medicine, of which I am presenting in several parts.
Isokinetic exercise is a recent development. Isokinetic devices
(also known as accommodative resistance devices) are currently in use
for exercise and testing. These devices keep the velocity of the
exercise constant by controlling the speed of the device's lever arm.
This is done by electromechanical brakes, hydraulic systems or
inertial devices. An isokinetic device is made to move at a pe-set
speed, no matter how much force is used. Holding the velocity of
exercise constant allows the exerciser to maximally load his muscles
at all points within the range of motion. This is in contrast to the
use of weighted machines which maximally load the muscle at only one
point(known as "The sticking point"). Isokinetic devices can be
ajusted so that the lever arm moves quickly. This allows the exerciser
to train at speeds approaching sport movement speed-while maximally
loading his muscles. this is different than using light weights and
moving quickly. Indeed, to derive the most benefits from classical
weight training exercises there must be strict adherence to correct
technique with the speed of movement being controled. Developing too
much momentum in classical weight exercise lessens their
effectiveness..............(Cont'd. in Part 2)