ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What type of muscular contraction occurs during isotonic movement?

1. Muscle generates tension without movement

2. Muscle contracts and joint movement occurs

3. Only the muscle lengthens

4. No tension is produced in the muscle

The correct answer is: Muscle contracts and joint movement occurs

During isotonic movement, the primary characteristic is that the muscle actively contracts and causes movement at the joint. This type of contraction occurs when a muscle changes length while maintaining a constant level of tension, leading to movement of the body parts. In isotonic contractions, there are two specific types: concentric, where the muscle shortens as it generates tension (such as during the upward phase of a bicep curl), and eccentric, where the muscle lengthens while still producing tension (such as during the lowering phase of that same curl). The key element in isotonic movement is that the muscle's contraction results in motion, distinguishing it from other types of muscle contractions. This understanding is fundamental for personal trainers as it affects how they design workout routines and assess client progress. Recognizing when isotonic contractions occur can help in targeting specific muscle groups effectively and ensuring clients engage in exercises that promote strength and endurance.