What is the definition of isokinetic exercise?

Isokinetic exercise is defined as exercise performed at a constant speed against accommodating resistance. This means that as the individual exerts force during the movement, the machine or device used for isokinetic exercise adjusts the resistance to accommodate the individual's strength. This approach allows for consistent movement speed throughout the range of motion, providing valuable data on muscle strength and performance.

The uniqueness of isokinetic exercise lies in its capacity to measure performance under controlled conditions, which is significant for rehabilitation and athletic training. The constant speed ensures that the muscles are worked in a way that maximizes force output throughout the full movement, minimizing the risk of injury while also providing a thorough assessment of muscular strength and endurance.

The other options describe different forms of exercise that do not fit the isokinetic definition. For example, exercises that involve weights lifted in a controlled manner typically refer to isotonic exercises, where the resistance remains constant but the speed can vary. Variable speed against constant resistance reflects another type of training modality that is not specific to isokinetic principles. Lastly, exercises where speed is determined by the individual suggest a more subjective approach to resistance and speed, which is contrary to isokinetic standards that maintain a specific speed regardless of individual exertion.