What is the difference between a concentric/Eccentric contraction and an isometric contraction?
A concentric contraction involves shortening a muscle against resistance, while an eccentric contraction involves lengthening a muscle against resistance. Both of these contractions involve movement. What differentiates an isometric contraction from these is that there is no movement involved. An isometric can be performed with the muscle in a lengthened position or a shortened position. MAT® isometric exercises are performed while the muscle is in a shortened position. The intention is to isolate (as best as possible) a specific muscle (or even a specific fiber of a specific muscle) and put it in a shortened position with very light resistance.
