How does isokinetic testing provide resistance?

Isokinetic testing provides resistance by varying the resistance according to the speed of the movement. This means that as the individual exerts more force and attempts to move faster, the equipment automatically adjusts the resistance to match that effort. This allows for maximal effort at any speed throughout the range of motion, which is a key characteristic of isokinetic exercise. The outcome is that muscle performance can be measured precisely, regardless of how quickly or slowly the individual moves.

The ability to tailor resistance to the speed of the user's movement is crucial, as it helps to evaluate muscle strength and endurance effectively across different velocities. This method contrasts with fixed systems where resistance does not change (such as using a fixed weight). It also differs from methods that provide equal resistance in both directions, as isokinetic testing ultimately allows for maximum resistance through the full range of motion without compromising safety or performance.