| Resistance
training is a form of strength training in which each
effort is performed against a specific opposing force
generated by resistance (i.e. resistance to being
pushed, squeezed, stretched or bent). Exercises are
isotonic if a body part is moving against the force.
Exercises are isometric if a body part is holding
still against the force. Resistance exercise is used
to develop the strength and size of skeletal muscles.
Properly performed, resistance training can provide
significant functional benefits
and improvement in overall health and well-being.
The goal of resistance training, according
to the American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI),
is to "gradually and progressively overload the
musculoskeletal system so it gets stronger."
Research shows that regular resistance training will
strengthen and tone muscles and increase bone mass.
Resistance training should not be confused with weightlifting,
powerlifting or bodybuilding, which are competitive
sports involving different types of strength training
with non-elastic forces such as gravity (weight training
or plyometrics) an immovable resistance (isometrics,
usually the body's own muscles or a structural feature
such as a doorframe). Full range of motion is important
in resistance training because muscle overload occurs
only at the specific joint angles where the muscle
is worked.
Resistance training can be performed
using various types of exercise equipment or
- Resistance bands
- Exercise machines
- Swimming machines
The study “Fat metabolism and
acute resistance exercise in trained men” conducted
by East Carolina University found that resistance
exercise is more beneficial then aerobic exercise
for fat loss. The purpose of the study was to see
how resistance exercise may contribute to improvements
in body composition. |
