Relating to or describing muscle contraction in which the tension increases as the muscle shortens, with resistance varying throughout the movement.
From 'auxo-' (increase) and 'tonic' (relating to tension), derived from Greek roots meaning growth and tension. The term emerged in exercise physiology to classify types of muscle contractions.
When you do a bicep curl with a weight, the muscle doesn't experience the same resistance throughout the movement—it's harder at different points. Auxotonic exercises create variable resistance, which is why they're so effective for building strength!
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