Exercise Modalities

Question 0

Free weights

Answer 0

Can be used to emphasize certain muscle groups. Or target multiple muscle groups.

Can improve athletic performance

Can challenge the core stabilization system.

May require a spotter.

May be too difficult for beginning clients to perform until exercise technique is mastered.

Requires multiple dumbbells or barbells to change intensity

Question 1

Strength Training Machines

Answer 1

Offer ease of use, require very little skills or training to become proficient in using.

Fail to accommodate both upper and lower body movements at the same time.

Not designed to fit all body types.

Work only in one plane of motion at a time.

Best for beginners and special needs clients.

Question 2

Cable Machines

Answer 2

Offer a variety of fitness and sports performance benefits

Allow similar freedom of movement as free weights

Do not require a spotter

Proper alignment: with the line of pull of the muscle being worked.

Question 3

Tubing

Answer 3

Elastic resistance training: inexpensive alternative to training with resistance

Can help improve: proprioceptive demands, muscular endurance, joint stabilization

Color coded according to intensity: various thickness, can’t pinpoint an exact intensity %, colors vary with manufacturers

Not ideal for max strength

Question 4

Medicine Balls

Answer 4

Can be used with a variety of populations

Can be thrown, caught, used to provide resistance in several planes of motion

Excellent modality for use in explosive movements and workouts

Allow client to move explosively without having to decelerate.

Come in 1lb to 30lb weight increments

Some don’t bounce (sand or power balls…can still be thrown)

If using for high velocity activities must be less than 10% of clients body weight.

Question 5

Stability Balls

Answer 5

Proper use of stability balls increases in strength and stability of the core musculature when substituted for more stable surfaces.

Can be used: prone, supine, seated, standing (against wall)

Size determined by client height: knees should be at 90 degree angle when sitting

Not to be used with heavy loads. Not more than 40lbs free weights.

Inspect ball prior to use: should be firm, no apparent wear and tear, should be burst resistant

Client must maintain proper posture during use

Question 6

Bosu Ball

Answer 6

Looks like a stability ball cut in half.

Increases the intensity by decreasing the stability of an exercise.

Relatively safe to stand on so it is practical to train with to target lower limb balance and stability.