Application of Elastic Resistance
Selecting the appropriate grade of material. The thickness (stiffness) of the material affects the level of resistance. A heavier grade of elastic generates greater tension when stretched and therefore imparts a greater level of resistance. As already noted, corresponding levels of resistance have been published for the different grades of bands […]

Introduction
There seems to be an almost limitless selection of exercise equipment on the market that is designed for resistance training. The equipment ranges from simple to complex, compact to space-consuming, and inexpensive to expensive. An assortment of simple but versatile handheld and cuff weights or elastic resistance products is useful in clinical and home settings, […]

Application and Progression of Plyometric Training
Plyometric training is appropriate only in the later stage of rehabilitation of active individuals who must achieve a high level of physical performance in specific, high-demand activities.
Contraindications. Plyometrics should not be used if inflammation, pain, or significant joint instability is present.
Preparation for plyometrics. Prior to initiation of plyometric training, a […]

Introduction
For the past 50 to 60 years practitioners and researchers alike in rehabilitation and fitness settings have taken great interest in resistance exercise and functional training. As a result, many systems of exercise have been developed to improve muscle strength, power, and endurance. All of these systems are based on the overload principle, and most […]

Introduction
Mechanical resistance exercise is any form of exercise in which resistance (the exercise load) is applied by means of some type of exercise equipment. Frequently used terms that denote the use of mechanical resistance are resistance training, weight training, and strength training.
Mechanical resistance exercise is an integral component of rehabilitation and conditioning programs for individuals […]

Introduction
The principles of resistance training presented in this section apply to the use of both manual and mechanical resistance exercises for persons of all ages, but these principles are not “set in stone.” There are many instances when they may or should be modified based on the judgment of the therapist. Additional guidelines specific to […]

The types of exercise selected for a resistance training program are contingent on many factors, including the cause and extent of primary and secondary impairments. Deficits in muscle performance, the stage of tissue healing, the condition of joints and their tolerance to compression and movement, the general abilities (physical and cognitive) of the patient, the […]

The velocity at which a muscle contracts significantly affects the tension that the muscle produces and subsequently affects muscular strength and power. The velocity of exercise is frequently manipulated in a resistance training program to prepare the patient for a variety of functional activities that occur across a range of slow to fast velocities.
Force-Velocity Relationship
The […]

The mode of exercise in a resistance exercise program refers to the form of exercise, the type of muscle contraction that occurs, and the manner in which the exercise is carried out. For example, a patient may perform an exercise dynamically or statically or in a weight-bearing or non-weight-bearing position. Mode of exercise also encompasses […]

Rest is a critical element of a resistance training program and is necessary to allow time for the body to recuperate from the acute effects of exercise associated with muscle fatigue or to offset adverse responses, such as exercise induced, delayed-onset muscle soreness. Only with an appropriate balance of progressive loading and adequate rest intervals […]

The intensity of exercise in a resistance training program is the amount of resistance (weight) imposed on the contracting muscle during each repetition of an exercise. The amount of resistance is also referred to as the exercise load (training load), that is, the extent to which the muscle is loaded or how much weight is […]

Many elements (variables) determine whether a resistance exercise program is appropriate, effective, and safe. This holds true when resistance training is a part of a rehabilitation program for individuals with known or potential impairments in muscle performance or when it is incorporated into a general conditioning program to improve the level of fitness of healthy […]

The use of resistance exercise in rehabilitation and conditioning programs has a substantial impact on all systems of the body. Resistance training is equally important for patients with impaired muscle performance and individuals who wish to improve or maintain their level of fitness, enhance performance, or reduce the risk of injury. When body systems are […]

Knowledge of the factors that influence the force-producing capacity of normal muscle during an active contraction is fundamental to understanding how the neuromuscular system adapts as the result of resistance training. This knowledge, in turn, provides a basis on which a therapist is able to make sound clinical decisions when designing a resistance exercise program […]