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Originally Posted by Lonewolf  I don't really beleive that. Isometric training gets your muscles strong at that particular type of activity (holding tension in the one place for a length of time); this does not transfer very well to plyometric strength, moving large weights around, wrestling etc. It is good for rock-climbing and is a valid method of training to be cycled in with other equally valid methods by strength athletes. |
Isometric tension has been around since the 1930s. Its great protagonist, Charles Atlas (circa 1935-39) made it the core of his "revolutionaly new" body building program. But it didn't go anywhere.
Like other "revolutionaly new" body building programs, it fell from general favor because it failed to address the needs of the general athletic world. It couldn't even linger as a superior bodybuilding protocol.
Enter the new thinkers, the coaches, the magazine writers, the fitness authors. Many are now combining what might be called niche programs like isometrics with general bodybuilding and performance sports protocols. For example, do a regular set and end with a drop set, some partial sets and finally, an isometric hold. The current thinking, as I understand it, is that all of these things extend the basic set and add intensity to the workout. That intensity, some current thinkers say, is one of the keys to a good workout.
Maybe they're right. Why not try isometrics with your squats, chins and curls and, for good measure, look at: 10 second rests between sets, pyramiding, post exercise stretching and leg extensions after your vertical jumps?
I don't know if all that will make your muscles grow larger or stronger or more endurance capable but I know one thing; you'll be tired.