Posts Tagged ‘Isometrics’

Dr. Schwartz – A Fan of Isometrics?

Posted: November 17, 2014 in General
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Strongman Alexander Zass was known for specializing in Isometric Exercise

Strongman Alexander Zass was known for specializing in Isometric Exercise

Was Dr. Schwartz a fan of Isometrics? Good question. Some say a definitive “no”. Even his “isometric like” exercises were “isotonic”!

The answer is probably more nuanced in reality.

On the sidebar of page 164 of  “HeavyHands:The Ultimate Exercise” Dr. Schwartz discusses isometrics.

He finished the sidebar by noting that at the time of publication, the opinions of physicians had changed regarding the usefulness of isometrics. Before that, some felt that isometric exercise dangerously increased blood pressure and was useless as an exercise protocol.

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More on Leonard Schwartz, Isotonometrics, Charles Atlas and Dynamic Tension

Posted: October 30, 2014 in General
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charlesatlas

 Charles Atlas performing a “Dynamic Tension Exercise” Image Courtesy © Charles Atlas, LTD

In a recent post the way in which Leonard Schwartz’ “IsoTonoMetrics” related to Charles Atlas and Dynamic Tension was mentioned.

Since then, some new information has come to light from Dr. Schwartz’ “Fitness Method” patent that is worth sharing on this topic, especially if people want to understand the inner dynamics of Schwartz’ “IsoTonoMetrics” and practice it for themselves.

Remember that in Schwartz’ IsoTonoMetrics, the hands are clasped or otherwise pushing together or pulling apart in various ranges of motion to activate different upper body muscles.

Bends, knee dips, torso twists, steps, head and neck rotations, various dance like moves, lunges, posture changes, body positions and toe raises are used to create a “whole body” aerobic exercise.

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Leonard Schwartz, Isotonometrics, Charles Atlas and Dynamic Tension

Posted: September 29, 2014 in General
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handclasps2

Isotonometric Handclasps

In a previous post on Isotonometrics, the question was asked: “So was this “isometrics”? Or “dynamic tension”? Or something else? That will be explored in a future article!” This is that article.

Dr. Schwartz’s extant writings interact from time to time with the systems advocated by other fitness experts who are mentioned by name, like Charles Atlas.  He is always courteous but clear about how his viewpoint differs and what advantages he believes it to have.

So how did Leonard Schwartz see his work in relationship to Charles Atlas’ “dynamic tension” and “isometrics’? The answer is found in his patent filing on “Fitness Method” with some observations drawn from the Charles Atlas course itself.

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