- Tyler Hakamaki
Isometrics for motor learning
Here is why should you use isometrics for learning new skills/movement patterns/ drills/form.
New motor learning requires new connections to be formed. With every rep/drill/movement that is done signals are sent. When new signals fire repeatedly the connections between the neurons strengthen, making them easier to fire in the same pattern in future. When repeating signals are recognized myelin is wrapped around the active circuit wiring. “It is this activity-driven insulation that the team identified as essential for learning.”
Once these circuits are formed and skills are learned, think of it like muscle memory in that you no longer need to produce myelin to perform or a pre-learned skill.
These skills/movements/patterns cannot be lost but only replaced through the learning of a new movement. This is why it’s so hard to “fix” movement patterns/form.. etc.
“That’s why unless you OVERLOAD technical work you will not be creating a more powerful habit as it’s too close to the old habit. THE BRAIN CAN’T DIFFERENTIATE!!” - Steffan Jones
“The goal of a Myelination phase would be to improve motor unit recruitment of the muscle by increasing the rate at which electrical signals (neurons) travel to the muscle via the nervous system.”
The reason why using overcoming isometrics would be beneficial for motor learning and myelination is “because they produce the highest level of motor unit recruitment.”
Speculative thought...cutting or gaining weight changes biomechanical positions altering the movement. Why not use isometrics for motor learning while performing weight cuts/gains.
Resources:
Taylor, A. P. (2014, October 16). Myelins role in motor learning. Retrieved October 13, 2020, from https://www.the-scientist.com/daily-news/myelins-role-in-motor-learning-36579/amp
Quaal, R. (2018, November 20). Why the Belt Squat Overcoming Isometric is an Awesome Exercise for Athletes. Retrieved October 13, 2020, from https://www.stack.com/a/why-the-belt-squat-overcoming-isometric-is-an-awesome-exercise-for-athletes