Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

Which exercise type is designed specifically to match the torque-generating capability of a concentric contracting muscle group throughout the full range of motion?

1. Isotonic

2. Isokinetic

3. Isometric

4. Plyometric

The correct answer is: Isokinetic

The exercise type that is designed specifically to match the torque-generating capability of a concentric contracting muscle group throughout the full range of motion is isokinetic exercise. Isokinetic exercises are performed at a constant speed, allowing for maximal resistance to be applied throughout the entire range of motion of the joint. This unique characteristic ensures that the muscle is working at its optimal length-tension relationship, providing varying resistance that corresponds with changes in the muscle's torque-generating capacity at different joint angles. This type of training is particularly beneficial for rehabilitation and strength conditioning because it helps maintain joint stability while allowing for controlled motion. The constant speed characteristic distinguishes isokinetic exercise from other types, enabling trainers to measure and quantify the strength and power of a muscle group in a precise manner. In contrast, isotonic exercises involve lifting a constant weight through a range of motion, isometric exercises focus on muscle tension without movement, and plyometric exercises emphasize explosive movement, not necessarily matching torque throughout the motion.