Biomechanics of stretching
1. Isotonic contraction asana mechanism
This is a type of contraction in which movement takes place, eg. When pushing or pulling an object. Eg. During Suryanamaskara.
During a concentric contraction, tension is produced while the muscle shortens. During an eccentric contraction, tension is produced while the muscle lengthens.
2. Isometric contraction asana mechanism
This is a type of contraction in which no movement takes place because the load on the muscle exceeds the tension generated by the contracting muscle. Eg. Final position of all asanas.
3. Slow twitch muscle fiber hatha yoga style
Muscle fibers are long cylindrical muscle cells. Slow-twitch muscle fibers are the ones that act slowly to produce small force over a long period of time by using aerobic respiration. These are suited for endurance-based activities.
4. Fast twitch muscle fiber hatha yoga style
Fast-twitch muscle fibers produce a large amount of force in a short span by using anaerobic respiration. Eg. Power events
5. Aerobic and anaerobic energy sources, hatha yoga style, mechanism, pros, and cons
In the aerobic energy system, the primary source of energy is glycogen, glucose, fats, and proteins. The sporting events are walking, jogging, swimming, and climbing stairs.
Advantages: large output of energy over a long period of time and removes lactic acid. Disadvantages: excess energy demands
In anaerobic energy system, the primary source of energy is only carbohydrates. Advantages: ability to produce energy under conditions of inadequate oxygen Disadvantages: lactic acid accumulation