Isotonic & Isometric Exercises

In this video, HipSilver Contributor, Richard La Plante uses examples of both isotonic and isometric exercises while performing a seated chest press. These principles can be applied to any exercise.

Isotonic exercise takes the body, or the part of the body being exercised, through a range of motion while under resistance. An example of isotonic exercise would be walking, running, hitting a bag, or using a barbell in a movement like a bench press or a squat, all good for maintaining bone density and building strength and endurance.

Isometric exercise requires no motion, as the muscles and joints stay in a fixed position while under resistance. The yoga plank, wall squat, and held poses in yoga are examples of isometric exercises; they are easy on the joints and good for maintaining and, to some degree, building strength, maintaining bone density, and lowering blood pressure (after elevating it).