As such, they can be done for longer and work best to increase size than strength in a lift. Yielding isometrics have more transfer to eccentric strength and are less neurologically draining. They are best suited for short, very intense efforts and have a greater impact on strength than size. Overcoming isometrics have more transfer to concentric strength and are more neurologically demanding. Trying to move a resistance that can’t be moved is called overcoming isometrics (you are trying to overcome the resistance), whereas holding a weight in place, preventing it from dropping down is called yielding isometrics.Īlthough they look similar, they have slightly different training effects. In both cases, the intent is different but the external result is the same. This can be achieved by either pushing/pulling against an immovable resistance or by holding a weight in a certain position. Simply put, isometrics refer to exercises where the muscles are producing force without movement. Interested? Read on! What A re Isometrics The isometric methods presented in this article will allow you to breakthrough growth plateaus easily (but painfully!). And as they say: “ A chain is only as strong as it’s the weakest link”.Īnd even if you are more into building muscle, wouldn’t you want to use many different approaches to stimulate muscle growth? After all, once the body adapts to a type of stimulus it becomes increasingly hard to keep building more mass. Athletes in general also tend to lack isometric and eccentric strength relative to their concentric (lifting) strength. This is really sad because it offers many benefits when it comes to getting stronger, bigger and healthier. Isometrics: The most Underrated Training ToolĮxcept for a few enlightened coaches, few people give isometrics the place it deserves in their training programs.