List of Exercise Equipment That Uses Constant Resistance

Man exercising with barbell

When it comes to exercise, most methods of resistance can be classified as either constant or variable. Constant, as the name implies, means that the weight load on the muscle stays the same throughout the exercise. Therefore, the amount of resistance used is determined by the sticking point -- or weakest point -- of the exercise.

Free Weights

Free weight resistance equipment, such as barbells and dumbbells, provide the same load regardless of the position of the weight or the phase of the exercise. For example, the weight stays constant during both the pushing and lowering phase of a bench press. The same is true for biceps curls, shoulder presses, barbell rows and other similar exercises.

Body Weight

The pushup is a classic example of a constant resistance body weight exercise, as the weight load is the same on both the lowering and rising phases. Traditional planks, side planks, squats and lunges are also in this category as the load is constant throughout the movement of the exercise.

Cable Pulleys

Lat pulldowns, flys, curls, rows and kickbacks are just some of the constant resistance exercises that are able to be performed with cables. The benefit of cables is an increased range of motion.

Other Equipment

Training tools such as medicine balls, kettlebells and resistance bands also provide constant resistance. Medicine balls and kettlebells can often be used in place of free weights, and resistance bands can help to strengthen all of the major muscle groups in the body.

Explore In Depth

Effect of using a suspension training system on muscle activation during the performance of a front plank exercise. November 01, 2014
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Abstract
An Examination of Muscle Activation and Power Characteristics While Performing the Deadlift Exercise With Straight and Hexagonal Barbells. May 01, 2016
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Abstract
Human skeletal muscle structure and function preserved by vibration muscle exercise following 55 days of bed rest. March 28, 2006
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Abstract
Treatment of chronic lower back pain with lumbar extension and whole-body vibration exercise: a randomized controlled trial. September 01, 2002
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Abstract
Validity and Reliability of the PUSH Wearable Device to Measure Movement Velocity During the Back Squat Exercise. July 01, 2016
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Abstract