Diametric resistance exercise, sometimes referred to as "motionless exercise," is associated with a workout program developed by Greer Childs, the creator of Shapely Secrets. The workout is structured around the idea of working muscle against muscle using your own body to create resistance. Although diametric resistance is a new term, it is based on long established fitness principles of using isometric contractions to strengthen muscles without using movement. Squeezing your hands together in front of your chest to tone your arms is one example of this technique.
Philosophy
The basic philosophy behind diametric resistance exercise is the idea that sculpting and toning your muscles can be done effectively without using special equipment or spending a lot of time. In traditional strength training you usually focus on one muscle group at a time. For example, when targeting your biceps, you might perform bicep curls with dumbbells. In diametric resistance training, working muscle against muscle allows you to work multiple muscles at the same time. For example, if you sit and squeeze your knees together while you contract your buttocks muscles, you can tone the inner thighs on both legs while simultaneously sculpting the gluteus maximus.
Applications
The marketing for Shapely Secrets focuses on achieving a total body workout in only seven minutes. However, the principles of motionless exercise through use of isometric resistance can be applied pretty much anywhere at any time. Using objects instead of your own body, you can perform resistance type exercises while sitting behind a desk, driving a car or in various rooms of your house. Sitting behind the wheel of a car, you can place one hand on each side of the wheel and squeeze and hold for several seconds. This tones the muscles in your forearms and upperarms. Another example is pressing your knees up underneath a desk as if trying to lift the desk with your legs and holding for several seconds. While standing in line at the grocery store you can place your arms by your thighs and firmly squeeze your hands into your legs.
Advantages
Diametric resistance or motionless exercise is ideal for people who don't have the time or money to join a fitness facility. Every muscle in the body can be utilized and toned by providing resistance either with your own body or with objects such as a wall or chair. None of the exercises require special skills or additional equipment to perform. For novice exercisers, isometric based workouts can be an effective way to begin to exercise and get comfortable with the process. Enhanced shape and tone of muscles may help improve mood and overall sense of well being and personal accomplishment.
Disadvantages and Warnings
Diametric resistance is anaerobic exercise, which means no additional oxygen is required to complete the task. According to Doctorsexercise.com, anaerobic exercise is more conducive to building bone and muscle, whereas aerobic exercise is essential for cardiovascular and circulatory health. Mayo Clinic rehabilitation specialist, Dr. Edward R. Laskowski, warns isometric exercises aren't recommended for people who have high blood pressure or heart problems. According to Laskowski, research has shown that isometric or motionless resistance based exercises, may significantly increase blood pressure due to the large increase in muscle tension.
Considerations
Before investing cash into any exercise program promising quick weight loss results with minimal effort, consult with your physician for the best workout for your physical fitness level and medical needs. According to Mayoclinic.com, the foundation of any successful program is still the equation of low-calorie diet with exercise. The most important thing you can do to achieve your goals is to make permanent lifestyle changes in your daily habits.
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