Trying to Lift May Be Better Than Lifting

By Tom Herrin

When people set out for that age-old workout that will change them to having better health in the twinkling of an eye, they usually see the same old stuff.  Running, swimming, lifting weights, or some other kind of common exercise always pops into their heads or appears on lists of healthy activities.  While these are all good things to do, some people may have reasons why movement may need to be more restricted for them. Isometrics are exercises that are resistance-based but with little or no movement.  In years past, isometrics experienced quite a bit of popularity year ago buut seemed to fade away. Today they seem to be making a bit of a comeback for good reasons.

They May Help Prevent Loss from Aging

Many people lose muscle as they age.  Some of this is likely to be purely cultural.  They feel as if they are unable to do some things they did when they were younger, so they avoid doing them.  Some people really have some loss of muscle and need to work more efficiently to maintain what they have and perhaps even build more.  Isometrics are able to successfully add flexibility, strength, and endurance that they so desperately need.

They May Help Increase Strength

With isometrics, people can isolate particular areas they want to improve.  Since it is known that muscles increase in size and strength when they are flexed, or contracted, isometrics may be a natural way of doing this.  Most of the time, isometrics consist of contracting muscles and holding them for a while. This can allow the blood flow to go lower and remain in the muscle tissue longer.  This is what is responsible for getting those substances to the muscles that help them to grow.

They May Improve Mental Health

Those of us who say our mental health is fine are doing a good job of fooling only ourselves.  We all get depressed at times, some more than others. When we exercise, our bodies release chemicals that can make us feel good.  With isometrics, we can spend just a few minutes working the muscles and helping to release those chemicals. I have had good experiences with isometrics.  You can too if you want to give it a try. It is simple, easy, and does not take up much space. Cost is likely zero since the only thing you need is yourself.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Oceanside, Calif.

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