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The test is always performed compared to the contralateral extremity this allows for quantifiable assessment of deficits in the peak torque, power, and how their ratios correlate. Isokinetic testing uses specific equipment that allows for isolation of targeted muscles that govern specific joints’ movement. The blending of these three phases to perform a plyometric moment enhances the muscle’s power performance.īook an Appointment Implementing plyometric exercises with physical therapyĪt Wright Physical Therapy, we use isokinetic testing to obtain specific information on both peak torque and rate of force development (Power) of muscle groups. This occurs when the person in this example explodes upwards to reach maximum vertical jump height-this phase results from many interactions that utilize the pre-stretched muscle’s elastic properties. The concentric shortening phase is the last phase of the cycle. The longer the amortization phase, the more energy will be wasted as heat. The shorter the amortization phase, the more potential kinetic energy will be available for the next phase. This is the maximal storage of the potential kinetic energy discussed previously and is the key to effective and powerful plyometric exercise. The amortization phase occurs when a person transitions from the preparatory squat to the explosive move upward concerning jumping. This causes a stretch in the muscle-tendon unit’s muscle spindle stimulating the muscle’s components and building potential kinetic energy inside the muscle. Using jumping as an example, the eccentric pre-stretch phase occurs when a person squats down in preparation to jump. Amortization (coupling or time to rebound) phase.
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They assist in developing the power (time component discussed above) needed both in sports and daily living activities. The 3 Components of Plyometric PatternsĪ plyometric exercise program should be a key part of any strength and conditioning program, performance enhancement program, or performance-based rehabilitation. Power is also defined as a muscle’s rate of force development. Power is improved when the muscle exerts maximum force in a short interval of time, such as using explosive, quick movements, and plyometrics. Peak torque is improved using traditional resistance programs, with weights or other resistance forms impeding a certain movement.
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The second component of strength is power, known as the amount of force produced by the muscle over a period of time. The first is peak torque, which is the amount of force that a muscle can produce. Muscle strength can be divided into two main components. Our muscles’ health is typically divided into three categories known as strength, endurance, and flexibility. Plyometric Exercises: Peak Torque vs Power
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Plyometrics can also be called plyos, consist of powerful and fast movements.Īlso known as jump training, plyometric exercises are usually geared toward highly trained athletes or people in peak physical condition. Plyometric exercises are exercises used to increase your speed, endurance, and strength.
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