Resistance can take one of two forms in athletic training: constant resistance or variable resistance.
Constant Resistance is a form of training where the resistance directed against the target muscle or muscle group does not vary through the range of athletic movement. A bicep curl using a dumbbell is an example of constant resistance.
Alternatively, Variable Resistance is a form of training where the resistance directed against the target muscle or muscle group does vary through the range of athletic movement. The same bicep curl completed using a resistance band is an example of variable resistance.
Variable Resistance Training continues to grow in popularity as more research highlighting its benefits comes to people’s attention.
The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research contains a plethora of studies which tout the advantages of incorporating Variable Resistance Training into any workout program such as:
- Incorporating maximum muscle fibers
- increasing power
- Increasing strength
- improving neuromuscular coordination.
Furthermore, exercisers commonly praise Variable Resistance Training for:
- helping overcome situations where gains have plateaued
- providing exercise variety during workouts
- assisting in the rehabilitation of an injury because it allows a lower starting resistance weight that gradually increases throughout the exercise
If you wish to learn more about Variable Resistance Training and its advantages, click on the links below.
If you wish to get started incorporating Variable Resistance Training into your workout program, you’ll need either some resistance bands or tubes or a set of chains to add to your free weight system. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more complete training system, check out our GX Activity Trainer Series of multigyms. With the patented Hybrid Weight System, users can easily choose between Constant Resistance or several levels of Variable Resistance Training thanks to the included Resistance Tubes that can be added or removed as desired.