Does flexing/tensing cause muscle strength/growth?

jameschappell1

Completely hypothetical questionn I would never do it I'm just curious about the effects of flexing.
If someone was to flex there muscles throughout the day for a scheduled time of let's say 30 mins a day, would it have the same effects as weightlifting and focusing on the muscles would? ( i already typed a big paragraph on this and then accidentally deleted, so sorry if it sounds rushed)

ccrdragon

Isometrics definitely work the muscle (tensing and holding). I would think that flexing would have some value, albeit probably very small. It would not have the same effect as a progressive lifting program tho.

Keto_Vampire

Well, isometric holds can be very hindering to workouts if done beforehand (impaired strength on lifts, excess fatigue, etc.). Generally better done towards end/or after a conventional lifting session. Good way to "get rekt" on a final set (ex. hold contraction for say seated leg curls); whether this leads to results is questionable - often just a way to break out of normal lifting habits/plateauing (detrimental if one can not recover from in time for next session).

Generally most bodybuilders will pose/do isometric contractions after lifting (bro science & even Shawn Ray will tell you isometric holds help create muscle separation...we are talking with people who are already in that sub 8% bodyfat range trying to etch in a few extra details - take that for what it's worth).

Azdak

If you have been bedridden or have been in space orbiting the earth for an extended period of time, yes. Otherwise no, or at least not much.

aokoye

Azdak wrote: »

If you have been bedridden or have been in space orbiting the earth for an extended period of time, yes. Otherwise no, or at least not much.

That's more or less exactly what I was going to say. If you are unable to use a limb, say you're recovering from a surgery) then tensing and relaxing those muscles will very potentially be prescribed to you in PT as to minimize unavoidable muscle atrophy. Been there, done that, and have the bills to prove it.

Outside of that and the very unlikely chance you'll be in space for an extended period of time, it's not useful.