There are different types of exercise used in weight training. These are divided into various groups such as isotonic and plyometric exercises. The name isotonic is derived from two terms. 'Iso' is a prefix meaning 'same' while tonic means strength. Plyo on the other hand means more while metric means distance. This shows that the two groups of exercise have a huge difference. With isotonic exercises, the force applied on the muscle does not change but the length of the muscle increases or decreases.
Comparing the two groups, weight training mainly utilizes isotonic exercises since the force from the muscles when pulling and pushing weighted objects should not change. However, this is not entirely true in practice due to fatigue, which decreases the force from the muscles. Although any instrument can be used in training, experts have developed special equipment such as dumbbells, and barbells, which are easier to grip hence maintaining the principles of the exercises.
Another factor that affects the isotonic nature of the exercises is the variation of the force on the muscles as each joint moves through its range of movements. Plyometrics are also applied in weight training whereby the stretch shortening cycle of the muscles is exploited to enhance reflex. This works through rapid alternation of shortening and lengthening of muscle fiber against resistance. In this case, a weighted object such as sandbag is used. In other cases, the body weight is also used through special exercises such as jumping.
When using plyometrics in weight training, you will be able to develop explosive speed and focus on maximal power instead of maximal strength. This means that the force of muscular contraction is compressed into a short period as possible. Some of the functional examples of this include improvement of a boxer's punches or incremental improvement in the jumping ability of basketball players. Proper caution should be taken with the plyometric weight-training exercises as they inflict the greatest stress on the tendons and joints compared to the other forms of exercises.
Apart from the two major categories of weight training exercises, they can also be categorized as isolation or compound exercises. In the isolation category, movement is restricted to one joint only. This involves the use of special equipment rather than the barbells and dumbbells. With compound exercises, several muscle groups are involved in the exercise. Movement is also unrestricted and can involve two or more joints. Another difference between the two is that compound exercises are similar to the natural movements that we make when pulling and lifting objects while the isolation exercises have an unnatural feel. All these groups of exercises have their own uses and therefore none can be ruled out as inferior to the others.
Bill has been an online article writer for nearly 6 years. In addition to his normal topics of diet, fitness and weight training, you can also check out his latest website on Brother Embroidery Machines [http://www.brotherembroiderymachineshop.com/] as well as Lawn Mower Wheels to see reviews and product comparisons.
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