Firstly, let’s define Optimal Loading:

Optimal loading is the load applied to the structure (muscle, tendon, joint, etc.) that maximizes the physiological adaptation.

Why is this important?

By performing exercise in a method that uses Optimal loading, it helps with:

• Increasing the Tensile Strength of the structure (how much it can handle);
• Re-organizing the collagen fibers into positions best for repair and integrity;
• Increasing muscle-tendon unit stiffness; and
• Improving neural re-organization allowing your structure to function properly again

There are 3 IMPORTANT questions to ask when incorporating Optimal Loading into your training:

1. Why? Why do we do that specific exercise exercise?
2. What? What exercise do we choose?
3. How? How do we do the exercise?

It it clear that choosing an exercise optimally can be complicated. As you can see, people need to understand the importance of the exercise, choose the best exercise in a specific phase of training, and perform the correct number of sets and reps with the right speed, load, and rest. Over and above understanding this, there are some important characteristics to consider for Optimal Loading. When prescribing rehabilitative exercises, it’s it important to:

• Direct the exercise to the correct tissue,
• Perform the exercise throughout the functional ranges,
• Ensuring to blend compressive, tensile and shear loading into the program,
• Being specific with regards to magnitude, direction, duration and intensity of the exercise,
• Include neural overloading,
• Tailor the program to a person’s characteristics, and
• Improve a person’s functional abilities.

As a qualified Biokineticist and Practicing Kinesiologist, I use these principles to help prescribe exercises.

For any guidance in your programming, email me at travis@tmkin.ca or book an initial assessment online.