resistance
ri-ZIS-tunss
/rɪˈzɪs.təns/
The refusal to accept or comply with something; in fitness, the opposing force that muscles must overcome during exercise.
Refers broadly to weights, elastic bands, or gravity providing opposing force to build muscular strength.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'resistentia', built from 're-' (against) and 'sistere' (to stand firm). In physics and biology, it developed the meaning of an opposing physical force that must be overcome.
Word relationships
- opposition: A broader term for counter-force or disagreement.
- drag: Specifically mechanical or fluid resistance against movement.
- compliance: Yielding without opposing force.
Commonly confused with
- assistance: Assistance helps a motion occur, while resistance pushes back against it.
Word family
- resist (verb): To withstand or oppose.
- resistant (adjective): Offering resistance or opposition.
Collocations
- resistance band
- resistance training
- level of resistance
- offer resistance
Idioms & expressions
- line of least resistance (the path of easiest action)
Example sentences
- "Increasing the resistance on the stationary bike makes pedaling significantly harder." Strength training
Memory hook
Resist standing still by pushing against opposing force. Re-sistere: standing firm against weight.
When not to use
Do not confuse with cardiovascular endurance, which measures aerobic stamina rather than opposing physical force.
Fun facts
- Resistance bands were originally invented in the early 20th century for surgical rehabilitation before entering mainstream fitness.
Related words
Explore more words
impedance, conductivity, stability, Mass, attenuation, resonance
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