Therapeutic Exercise

Exercise Parameters

Exercise parameters are an integral part of the therapeutic program and should be determined for each exercise. Parameters include frequency, intensity, duration, repetitions, sets, and rest. Frequency refers to how often each aspect of the exercise program is performed. Intensity refers to the difficulty of the activity. The unit of measurement varies for different types of exercise. Duration refers to the length of time an exercise is performed in a given session. Repetitions are the number of times an exercise is performed in one set. A set is a fixed number of repetitions of an exercise performed without rest. Rest refers to the length of time of resting between sets.

Types of Muscle Contraction

Muscles can contract isometrically or isotonically. Isometric contractions generate muscle force, but no joint movement occurs, such as holding a squat for 10 seconds. Isotonic contractions occur when the muscle contracts and joint movement occurs. There are two types of isotonic contractions. Concentric contractions occur when the muscle fibers shorten as the muscle contracts, such as the lifting phase of a biceps curl. Eccentric contractions occur when the muscle fibers lengthen, such as the lowering phase of a biceps curl.

Position of the Exercise

The body or segment can be positioned in relation to gravity to change the demands of the exercise. Antigravity exercises are performed in an upward direction, or against gravity. Gravity-eliminated exercises are performed in a horizontal plane, which is perpendicular to the force of gravity. Gravity-assisted exercises are performed in a downward direction, or in the same direction as the force of gravity. Exercises can be performed with the affected part in a weight-bearing or closed-chain position or in a nonweight bearing or open-chain position. Push-ups are an example of a closed-chain exercise. Biceps curls are an open-chain exercise.

Types of Exercise