clars wanted to know:


Discuss the work done during “isometric exercise,” that is, exercise in which the muscles flexed with no external bodily movement.

Gonetoday wanted to know:


Wikipedia defines PNF like this:

A combination of passive stretching & isometric contractions. “However, it can also weaken muscles, decrease endurance, slow neuromuscular control & coordination, & decrease joint stability.”

When resistance is applied, as in the case of Hold-Relax, it should be the max amount of resistance that allows for pain-free movement. “PNF exercises can be applied to patients of all ages. Research shows it is superior to static stretching.”

I understand what “passive stretching” & “isometrics” are, but can someone explain the contradiction I see in the two above sentences? Maybe its not a “contradiction”, but I’m looking for other people’s thoughts on PNF. They talk about it the my DVD, “Viniyogatherapy For The Upper Back, Neck & Shoulders”. I’ve got a torn rotator cuff & biceps tendon that caused my shoulders to tighten up over a period of months. Now I have a “clicking” in my neck with minimal pain that I’m trying to work out. No insurance. Thanks