concentric

Definition

The lifting or shortening phase of an exercise when muscle fibers contract, like the upward motion of a bicep curl. The part you actually brag about.

Example Usage

The concentric phase of my deadlift looks smooth, but it's the eccentric lowering where my form falls apart and my spine questions its career choices.

Origin

From Latin 'concentricus' meaning having a common center, applied to muscle physiology

Fun Fact

You're typically 20-40% stronger in the eccentric phase than concentric, which is why you can lower weight you can't actually lift.

Source: Exercise physiology and biomechanics terminology

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