What are extensions?

[NaziKiller]

Leg extensions, elbow extensions, wrist extensions - what are they? What do they mean? What do they contribute to the muscles being worked?

Thanks in advance.

[aml01_ph]

Basically, an extension is a term referring to the movement where limbs around the joint attachment straightens which is opposed to flexion (where the limbs bend). An exception to his description is that of wrist extensions, where the extension movement describes that of the hand moving to the backhand side.

What do they contribute to the muscles aside from making them stronger and prevent necrosis....

[Grippereeno]

Extension exercises generally refer to the action of straightening of a limb so elbow extension would mean straightening the arm at the elbow from a flexed (bent) position. Depending on the direction of force applied this action would either cause (in this case) the biceps to work eccentrically or the triceps concentrically.

[Pitfighter]

Leg extensions are an isolation exercise for the quadriceps but also strengthen the knee ligament. They can pretty much only be done on a leg extension machine, possibly with freeweights or ankleweights but I've never seen anyone use those.

Arm extensions are an isolation exercise for the triceps and probably also strengthen the elbows. For starting position stand up with a comfortable weight dumbell holding it behind your back,arms raised and bent. Straighten your arms lifting the dumbell straight up, straightening your arms then bend your arms back to starting position. You can also use various machines and pulleys do this. Other exercises like skull crushers or diamond push ups work the triceps and elbows in a similar manner.

Don't know what wrist extensions are.