It’s not flashy, and definitely not utilized in any of the newest fitness trends seen on infomercials. But is isometric exercise (a type of strength training in which the joint angle and muscle length do not change during contraction) an effective way to train? Let’s look at what the research says:
“Isometric exercise is a fundamental component of both non-operative and postoperative rehabilitation of shoulder instability”
Current Orthopaedic Practice (2013)
“Study revealed that localized isometric exercises have been effectual in reducing the fat percentage”
Annals of Biological Research (2011)
“Besides blood pressure, isometric exercise is associated with other beneficial effects consisting of an increase in muscle bulk, upper and lower body strength, increases in bone density, and a decrease in bone fractures”
The Journal of Clinical Hypertension (2010)
“Following musculoskeletal pathology, where a disorder of muscle onset timing has
been identified, practitioners should consider the use of isolated (isometric) muscle
training to restore the timing of muscle onset.”
Physical Therapy in Sport (2011)
“Stretching and aerobic exercising alone proved to be a much less effective form of
training than isometric strength training.”
Journal of the American Medical Association (2003)
“Early introduction of isometric exercise is a relevant choice in cases of patients with sciatica caused by the disc herniation.”
Isokinetics and Exercise Science (2011)
“Isometric strength training can have beneficial effects on performance during
endurance events.”
European Journal of Applied Physiology (2012)
“Isometric exercises not only prevent reduction of bone density, but may also increase the mineral density of the injured bone.”
Journal of the Facility of Medicine (2012)
“In fact, using isometric exercise for 6 minutes would be the equivalent muscle work of 30 to 35 minutes of gym work on commercial weight lifting equipment.”
Journal of Applied Research (2006)
It seems that in both performance based programs and rehabilitation programs, isometric exercises are a good choice to improve everything from bone density to muscle strength to body fat reduction. Come see how BioFit – Therapy Based Fitness utilizes isometric training as part of an overall approach to a higher quality of life.