isometric exercise

noun

1. exercise or a program of exercises to strengthen specific muscles or shape the figure by pitting one muscle or part of the body against another or against an immovable object in a strong but motionless action, as by pressing the fist of one hand against the palm of the other or against a desk.
2. any specific exercise of this type.

Word History and Origins

Origin of isometric exercise¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

These isometric exercises are designed to build strength without moving muscles or joints.

From BBC

But he was a natural contrarian, a born critic, whose fullest energies manifested themselves in the act of doing intellectual isometric exercises against the fixed objects presented by someone else's ideas.

From Literature

Generally, it can be helpful to strengthen your core with isometric exercises like a Pallof press or plank variations.

From New York Times

Returning home to Southern California, Calvin worked out daily with his father at Xtreme Athletics, staying busy with plyometric training, explosion work and isometric exercises.

From Seattle Times

“When we see it in men, it’s after extreme exertion, such as isometric exercises.”

From Fox News