Dynamic Tension

In my last post I think I mentioned Dynamic Tension and Isometrics a few times.  So, I thought maybe I would talk a bit about what this is, in case anyone doesn't know, and doesn't feel like doing any research.

Dynamic Tension is, in essence, using the strength of one muscle group to provide resistance for the opposing muscle group.  It's a concept that has been around for eons, particularly in the Far East.  It also happens to be the method by which the proto-Superman, Doc Savage supposedly gained his superhuman strength.  So there's a pretty cool geek-factor.

There are a few methods for doing this, and each has slightly different effects.

Isometrics could be called "static contraction."  Basically, you flex your muscles as hard as you can, forcing each muscle group to pull against its opposing group.  Every major muscle group in our bodies has an opposite;  the Bicep is opposed by the Tricep, the Pectorals are opposed by the Lats, etc.  There are many minor muscles and stabilizing muscles that get involved, depending on variations of body position, but the concept is the same.  As you flex these muscles, each opposing group fatigues at a fairly equal rate.  Arnold Schwarzenegger was a big proponent of using "posing as exercise" to supplement his gym work in this manner.

Here is a video that illustrates this kind of thing well.  Note the fact that he does this just standing there.  Although it may seem cheap for an exercise video, it does a good job of illustrating that this kind of thing can be done, as he says, anywhere.  Including your  kitchen.



I like this video because this guy has my ideal physique.

Dynamic Tension (sometimes called Isokinetics) works in a similar way, but instead of the muscle groups being static, they are in motion.  Most fitness experts feel that this is a better way to do it.  Basically, you are replicating the effects of weight lifting and other resistance movement, by using your own body parts as the "weights."  The concept was made popular by Charles Atlas, and his program is still available. 

In this video, the gentleman uses a basic bicep curl to illustrate.  But, the simple concept can be easily adapted to just about any body part.



So, there you go.  These are the kinds of things I do at my desk while at work, standing around in the kitchen while cooking a meal, or even while driving in the car...