Progressive Strengthening
Introduction
Progressive strengthening exercises are used in rehabilitation to increase muscle strength, tone, size, and function. Progressive strengthening is also referred to as “progressive resistance,” “exercise progression,” and the “overload principle.” Injury, disease, and neurological disorders, such as stroke or traumatic brain injury, can weaken muscles. Bed rest and inactivity can cause muscle wasting. Progressive strengthening exercises build up muscles by gradually increasing the amount of weight or resistance you use while exercising.
Treatment
Your progressive strengthening program will consist of lifting a specified amount of weight a certain amount of times. When your muscles have strengthened enough that the exercises become easy, the amount of weight or resistance will be increased. The process will continue until you have reached your goal.