Rhythm in muscular performance may be defined as the repetition of movements at the same tempo. In the rhythmical activity, a large part of the first excitement still serves for the second, and the second for the third and so on. Inhibitions fall away, and the mere after effect of each stimulus secures a great saving for the new impulse. Thus it saves energy in regular rhythmic movements. Bratton explains why rhythmic work is less tiring than non-rhythmic, as based on the existence of double sets of muscles for accomplishing work. When they work rhythmically, one set rests while the other set works. In non-rhythmic work both sets may operate at the same time thereby making the work more tiring.
In the household many activities can be done rhythmically. For example, in dishwashing, when all the plates of one size are washed in sequence, the hands and arms develop certain rhythmic movements in handling them. Sweeping, running the vacuum cleaner and ironing clothes, all provide recognized possibilities for a regular flow of motions, resulting in rhythmic movements. In this manner, rhythmic motions help a great deal in managing energy effectively.
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