AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary characteristic of isokinetic resistance training?

1. It involves explosive movements to build strength

2. It maintains constant muscle tension at a steady speed

3. It focuses on endurance training over time

4. It emphasizes resistance through a full range of motion

The correct answer is: It maintains constant muscle tension at a steady speed

Isokinetic resistance training is defined primarily by its ability to maintain a constant speed throughout the entire range of motion while simultaneously providing resistance. This type of training allows the muscles to exert force at a controlled acceleration, which means that the resistance adjusts according to the force exerted by the muscle, enabling the individual to produce maximal force at all points of the movement. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for rehabilitation and performance enhancement because it minimizes the risk of injury and helps in developing strength evenly across the muscle's range of motion. It also allows for precise measurement of muscle strength and performance, making it a valuable tool in both clinical and athletic settings. In contrast, explosive movements are characteristic of different types of strength training that focus on power rather than the constant velocity aspect of isokinetic training. Endurance training prioritizes stamina and prolonged exertion over the precise control of force exertion, while emphasizing resistance through a full range of motion is more aligned with isotonic training, where the amount of resistance can change throughout the movement. Isokinetic training stands out because of its unique approach to maintaining a steady speed, making it the correct answer.