Isometric exercises were all the rage before bodybuilding became so popular. They are a different type of muscle building and are static, meaning you just apply pressure and hold it. You can push your arms against the wall and hold there. They really do provide a benefit even though they aren't as popular as they were before bodybuilding.
• It Works. Isometrics actually provides more muscle contraction than the weight lifting and strength training that involves movement and is great at building the specific groups of muscle that it is working.
• It's Fast and Easy. Isometric exercises can be done almost any time almost anywhere and you can get results even if you can only take a couple of minutes at a time. If you can't do a full workout you can do just a few exercises and still benefit.
• It's Cheap. You don't need to go to an expensive gym or use any machines for the traditional isometric exercise. You can use walls and your own body parts and get an adequate resistance for good exercise.
There are a few drawbacks and that may be why we don't hear much about isometrics since they were replaced by traditional body building.
• Raises Blood Pressure. It can raise your blood pressure if you hold your breath and most people tend to do just that and it does cause your blood pressure to jump and it could cause serious problems. If you do try these exercises, be sure to breathe regularly.
• Too Specific. Isometrics only works a specific muscle group at a time and you would need to do them form many angles and positions to get the same effects as weight lifting since bodybuilding works the muscles through an entire range of motion.
In spite of the drawbacks, isometrics can still be beneficial when done during your workout instead of just replacing it. Here are some ways to add them into your regular routine to be most beneficial.
• Do Them at Work. If you don't have the time for the gym, there are many isometric exercises you can do at work against the wall, a desk, and with your own body. How about a workout instead of the afternoon coffee break.
• Add Modern Equipment. Isometric exercise came before the traditional body building and didn't have the benefits of the modern equipment we use now. For the modern isometrics you can use equipment like free weights and resistance bands, simply using them while you stay still instead of the traditional way with motion.
• Mix It Up. Why not add isometrics to your current routine instead of trying to work in an extra workout just for them. Lift your weights and then hold them steady after you have done your regular reps to add to your workout.
Isometric exercises can be a beneficial addition to improve your body even if you shouldn't use it as your only bodybuilding routine.
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