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)