IFPA Trainer Practice Exam

Traditional weight training is more accurately described as ______.

1. Isotonic

2. Eccentric

3. Dynamic constant external resistance

4. Isometric

The correct answer is: Dynamic constant external resistance

Traditional weight training is most accurately described as dynamic constant external resistance because this terminology captures the essence of how traditional resistance exercises work. In this context, "dynamic" refers to movements involving the contraction of muscles through a range of motion, generally incorporating both concentric (muscle shortening) and eccentric (muscle lengthening) actions. The term "constant external resistance" indicates that the weights used provide a specific, unchanging load, regardless of the position in the exercise. This means that regardless of the joint angle or muscle length during different phases of the lift, the resistance remains the same, typically as experienced with free weights or machines. This kind of resistance training effectively contributes to strength gains and muscle hypertrophy. In contrast, isotonic training is often used interchangeably with dynamic constant external resistance, but it does not emphasize the unchanging nature of the resistance throughout the range of motion. Eccentric training focuses specifically on muscle lengthening under load rather than the entire spectrum of dynamic movements. Isometric training involves static contractions without any change in muscle length, which is fundamentally different from the dynamic nature of traditional weight training.