Could Old School be the New Way of Building Muscle
By Tom Herrin
If people want to improve their muscles, they may think of work. While that is the case, it may not be the kind of work that comes to mind at first. Higher levels of activity are more the norm for most. Running, lifting, or participating in some kind of more aggressive game can be just a few of the more traditional activities that pop into the mind. A way of still getting some of this done with less physical stress is isometrics. Some years ago, they were quite popular but seemed to lose momentum. Today they seem to have made a little bit of a comeback in popularity. Some of this may be because there could be better science behind them.
They May Be a Great Way for Recovery
Those who have been injured often struggle to help their muscles as they try to rehabilitate them. Isometrics can be a way to work muscles with a purpose without taking a chance on causing more injury to joints or other muscles. People can spend a few minutes each day or so concentrating on the specific muscles they feel need work and leave others alone. They can save excessive wear on the joints or other body parts.
They May Improve Strength
The key to gaining strength for anyone is to build the muscles. When people contract their muscles they are able to maintain more of the substances in the muscles that are supplied by the blood. This means that if they are able to hold the contractions for a longer period of time, they will be able to have more opportunity for the muscles to grow. Isometrics can allow the contractions to be held for that longer time. It has been said that isometrics may help to increase strength by as much as 5 percent per week.
They May Boost Mental Health
All of us have stress in our lives and find the need to improve our outlook. When we participate in isometrics, we are able to work those muscles and stimulate the production and release of chemicals in our bodies that make us feel better. I am one of those who can get down at times. When I do, I try to find some kind of exercise outlet. Isometrics can do this with pretty good success. They have also allowed me to build muscles in areas of need without much effort. I know they work. You may want to give them a try yourself.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Plano, Tex.