Isometry is mentioned in some vertical jump programs as a way to build strength. In this article, you’ll learn exactly what they are and how some coaches recommend them to develop your jumping abilities. However, in the end, isometry cannot be recommended over strength training. This is because isometric training cannot actually overload the muscles.
Definition of isometry
Isometry is a static contraction-a muscle contraction in which the muscle contracts without actually moving. Isometric contractions occur when you hold a weight in a fixed position called an upward isometric contraction or push or pull an immovable entity called a superficial isometric contraction. Isometric contractions occur with each vertical jump. It usually occurs only for a moment after the change from a fall to an explosion. The fleeting moment when you do not move up and down is an isometric contraction.
Isometric in vertical jump training
At first glance, completing a static crunch seems to be counterproductive to improving jumping ability when vertical jumps are considered movements vertical jump training rather than holds. However, many vertical jump programs recommend isometrics, so let’s take a closer look. Vertical jump is an expression of muscle strength. Our vertical jump formula is that force (force) times velocity (velocity) is equal to an explosion. Strength is determined by both the size and number of muscle fibers employed.
Isometric training is hypothesized to be an essential way for muscles to mobilize more fibers. The body begins to rejuvenate and mobilize more fibers to maintain its grip or strength in order to remain stationary or maintain maximum weight with heavy or immobile weight. This means that your contractions begin to become more neurologically effective. Unfortunately, we can’t overload our muscles, so we don’t move to vertical jump exercises.
Isometric training does not give you the results you need to jump higher. Sign up for free vertical jump training here to learn more about some ways to do the wrong exercises.