i saw someone at the gym doing this training method where he only does 1 rep for each exercise (2-3 per bodypart) but holds it at the "contraction point" for 45-60 seconds. whole body 3x a week. for example for back holding a lat pulldown at the "down" position. he said it makes him really sore. has anyone ever tried this or knows if it's any good? it looks kinda strange to me

CaV

[This message has been edited by CaV961 (edited 06-04-2003).]

They're called isometric exercises (as opposed to isotonic exercies which is where you perform x number of reps). They're good for building strength but you only build strength at the angle you're holding at which isn't really ver practical. They also cause your blood pressure to spike during the hold. Isotonic exercises are generally better to stick to for the bulk of your workouts, although you can throw some isometric stuff in every now and then just to change things up / shock your muscles.