Do you do Isometric Training?

[beefybull]

I was just considering incorporating it into my program... Anyone have results/stories?

For those who dont know what Isometric training is, it is a type of training in which a contraction occurs, but the muscle doesnt shorten, meaning no movement. Some examples: Pressing against an object that cannot move, Benching against racks/pins so that the bar stays in one place while you press, etc.

 

[Baoh]

I get more out of movement than heavy holds and statics. I could see some mental benefits, though, such as feeling a heavier weight so as not to be scared by it. Still, I fear no weight, so it's honestly worth nothing to me.

 

[circusgirl]

great for flexibility if you're doing martial arts. isometric stretching that is.

 

[Rich_S]

If you're training for a sport that requires isometric stength in that particular movement, it makes sense. But I think it will have little to no impact on either muscular size or concentric strength.

 

[Thaibox]

I use to do a bunch of iso stuff. I still do it for neck sometimes and lightly for other things on AR days. I also use to bench against the crash bars in a cage to work off sticking points(there was some movement there, not sure if those would be iso or not)

 

[Baoh]

I use to do a bunch of iso stuff. I still do it for neck sometimes and lightly for other things on AR days. I also use to bench against the crash bars in a cage to work off sticking points(there was some movement there, not sure if those would be iso or not)

Sounds like you may have been doing "functional isometrics" or "isometronics", which would be more effective than simple isometrics.

 

[casualbb]

If you're trying to build muscle, don't waste energy doing isometrics. Growth is caused through heavy eccentric contractions.

I do agree, though, that isometrics do have some sports-specific applications.

-casualbb

 

[collegiateLifter]

great for flexibility if you're doing martial arts. isometric stretching that is.

???

static stretching is generally regarded as not a good thing for martial arts. From what I've read pnf and dynamic stretching are much more applicable

 

[circusgirl]

???

static stretching is generally regarded as not a good thing for martial arts. From what I've read pnf and dynamic stretching are much more applicable

Yes. BUT to develop dynamic stretching ability, you need to develop the static stretching ability first. At least, that is what Tom Kurz says and I ahve found this to be the case.

It takes 1-2 months for dynamic stretching to get your dynamic stretch up to the level of your static stretch. Do some more static stretching and then you will have a wider "range" for improving your dynamic stretch some more.

I guess it gives you more control over your stretch reflex. thaibox may have more to say on this.

 

[Baoh]

I find I can achieve a much greater dynamic stretch than a static one.