The Isotension Principle

The Isotension Principle Defined

The Isotension Principle relates to the flexing and contracting of the muscles you are training between training sets. This keeps them pumped and ready for more action, and is a beneficial exercise in its own right.

Flexing For Bodybuilding

Flexing is a form of isometric exercise, and isometrics (although they do not usually apply to bodybuilding because they do not work your muscles through their entire range of motion) involve very intense muscle contractions. Some may be surprised to learn that a bodybuilder who poses and flexes in the gym, watching himself in the mirror, is engaged in a very important part of his workout.

Isotension For Competitive Bodybuilders

Arnold Schwarzenegger believes that without practicing Isotension between sets, you cannot win a major bodybuilding championship. At a competition, big muscles alone will not help you win a title, as you have to be able to control them as well, something that is learnt. Posing practice can also enhance this muscle control. Isotension helps a bodybuilder train and control his muscles, important for a bodybuilding competition. Neglecting this type of training may be the difference between placing or not in a competition. The Isotension Principle is one of the Power Training Principles.