What is a Stretch Shortening Cycle?

Introduction A stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) is an active stretch (eccentric contraction) of a muscle followed by an immediate shortening (concentric contraction) of that same muscle. Research Studies The increased performance benefit associated with muscle contractions that take place during SSCs has been the focus of much research in order to determine the true nature of… Read More

What is an Isotonic Contraction?

Introduction In an isotonic contraction, tension remains the same, whilst the muscle’s length changes. Isotonic contractions differ from isokinetic contractions in that in isokinetic contractions the muscle speed remains constant. While superficially identical, as the muscle’s force changes via the length-tension relationship during a contraction, an isotonic contraction will keep force constant while velocity changes,… Read More

Classification & Methods of Resistance Training

This article is organised as follows: PART ONE: INTRODUCTION 1.0 Introduction This article provides a brief outline of the classification and methods of resistance exercise. It will look at how we can classify resistive exercise, outlining some of the considerations and precaution to note. It will then provide a description of the various methods of… Read More