Definition

Noun: * A type of physical exercise: Isotonic exercise is a form of physical training where muscles contract and move a joint through a range of motion against a constant resistance or load. During this movement, the muscle tension (tonus) remains relatively constant while the muscle's length changes.

Usage

This term is used in the context of fitness, physical therapy, and exercise science to describe a fundamental category of strength training. * To build functional strength, incorporate isotonic exercises like squats and bench presses into your routine. * The physical therapist recommended isotonic exercise to improve the patient's joint mobility and muscle endurance.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• Contrast with Isometric Exercise: Isotonic exercise is often contrasted with isometric exercise, where muscles contract without changing length (e.g., holding a plank). Isotonic exercise involves dynamic movement.
• Phases of Movement: An isotonic exercise typically has two phases: a concentric phase (muscle shortens as it contracts to lift the weight) and an eccentric phase (muscle lengthens under control while lowering the weight).

Variants and Related Words

• Isotonic (Adjective): Describing the nature of the exercise or contraction.
  • The isotonic phase of the workout focused on movement control.
• Dynamic Exercise: A broader, sometimes synonymous term for exercise involving movement against resistance.
• Concentric Contraction: The shortening phase of an isotonic movement.
• Eccentric Contraction: The lengthening phase of an isotonic movement.

Synonyms

• Dynamic strength training
• Weight training (when using external weights)
• Resistance training (a broader category that includes isotonic exercise)

Antonyms

• Isometric exercise: Exercise involving static muscle contraction without joint movement.
• Isokinetic exercise: Exercise performed on specialized machines that control the speed of movement throughout the range of motion.

Noun

1. exercise in which opposing muscles contract and there is controlled movement (tension is constant while the lengths of the muscles change)
   • the classic isotonic exercise is lifting free weights