eccentric contraction

Definition

A muscle contraction where the muscle lengthens while under tension, like lowering a weight. The phase responsible for approximately 90% of your next-day soreness.

Example Usage

My trainer made me do five-second eccentric contractions on every rep, and now I can't straighten my arms.

Origin

From Greek 'ekkentros' meaning 'out of center,' describing the lengthening action

Fun Fact

Eccentric training causes significantly more muscle damage than concentric, which is why 'negatives' are both highly effective and absolutely brutal.

Source: Biomechanics and strength training literature

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