Plyometric exercises involve explosive movements designed to increase strength, speed, and agility. By engaging the stretch-shortening cycle of the muscles, these exercises leverage the force of elastic energy to improve athletic performance. This Muscle and Motion article delves into the science behind plyometrics, outlines beginner and advanced techniques, and offers advice on integrating these powerful […]
Lifting objects from the ground is an essential daily activity we all regularly perform. For many years, we used to believe lifting with spinal flexion could be a risk factor for lower back injuries and pain. Today, we know lifting with a flexed spine is not necessarily harmful, and there is no one way to […]
Eccentric contractions are a type of muscle contraction in which the muscle-tendon complex lengthens and contracts at the same time. This type of contraction has several distinct traits distinguishing it from other contractions, potentially resulting in unique adaptations. Due to its particular physiological and mechanical characteristics, eccentric muscle work has garnered growing attention for rehabilitation […]
3 Exercises to Target the Rectus Abdominis Muscle The rectus abdominis is one of the four abdominal muscles located in the anterior abdominal region and running vertically along the midline of the abdomen, extending from the pubic bone to the sternum. The rectus abdominis is responsible for posterior pelvic tilt (PPT) and spine flexion. […]
In the realm of resistance training, the way you focus during exercise is crucial. It’s not just about what exercises you do but also about how you execute them. You can use two key types of cues in your training: internal and external. Grasping the nuances between internal and external cues and their impact on […]
When we walk, run, or simply stand, there’s a silent yet powerful force at play, fundamental to our movement yet often unnoticed: the ground reaction force (GRF). This force is not just a key player in the biomechanics of our daily activities but also a crucial concept in fields like sports science, physical therapy, and […]
Scientists have long recognized the profound connection between physical activity and our overall well-being. The evidence is clear: movement is vital for our physical health and plays a crucial role in nurturing our mental and emotional states. As we delve into the intricate relationship between the mind, body, and soul, we find that exercise is […]
When it comes to training programs, the emphasis often lies on bilateral exercises like squats, bench presses, or deadlifts. While these are undoubtedly effective, there’s another category of exercise that deserves your attention: unilateral exercises. These exercises, focusing on one side of the body at a time, are not just supplementary but essential for balanced […]
Building muscles without weights might sound counterintuitive to many, but it’s entirely possible! Over the last few years, more individuals have opted for home workouts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, vacations, or limited gym access. Given this growing trend towards at-home training, understanding how to build muscle by effectively using only your body weight is […]
Suspension (straps) exercises have gained immense popularity in recent years thanks to their ability to provide a full-body workout that enhances strength stability. Their compact size and user-friendly design make suspension exercise systems highly portable, which makes them a convenient option for a wide range of users, from seasoned athletes to those just starting their […]