The prefix “iso” means “equal” and the term “metría” comes from the Greek “metron”, which means “measure”. Thus, isometry refers to a singularity of geometry. However, isometric issues are also present in nature and in physical preparation.
in geometry
There is an isometric transformation when there is neither an alteration of the shape nor a change in the size of a geometric figure. Thus, there is only one change of position in the figure.
Translation is a movement that occurs when a figure slides in a straight line in one direction. Three aspects are involved in any translation:
1) the direction (right, left, up, down…),
2) the magnitude (the specific distance traveled) and
3) the direction (movement horizontally, vertically or obliquely).
From a formative point of view, isometry is present in relevant mathematical issues: obtaining figures, breaking them down into parts or spatial dexterity. In the field of early childhood education, the little ones have to become familiar with things and shapes that have some kind of isometry, but also with those that are asymmetrical.
In nature and in the world around us
If we cut an apple in half we will see that the two parts are symmetrically identical. The images that are projected on the water are coincident and, therefore, there is an isometry between them. The rose windows of Gothic cathedrals, mandalas, tessellations, the structure of a flower or the blades of a windmill also have this geometric singularity. In summary, all those designs with translations and movements have this characteristic.
An isometric exercise is one in which a force is applied to an object that presents a certain resistance and, therefore, no body movement occurs.
These types of exercises are performed to gain strength and muscle mass and are characterized by being static and not dynamic. Pushing a wall with your arms for a few seconds or holding a position by exerting a force would be two examples of isometric exercises.
This type of training is also used for rehabilitation, as it helps to strengthen damaged or atrophied tendons and muscle tissue.
Isometric strength training has some additional advantages: it can be done anywhere, it reduces the risk of injury, and it adapts to any type of athlete. However, this type of exercise should not be abused because it decreases muscle elasticity and does not favor intermuscular coordination.
Fotolia photos: nadyac/liagloss