Definition
A single nerve fiber and all the muscle fibers it controls. Recruiting more motor units = more force production. It's why you scream when lifting heavy—recruitment increases.
Example Usage
Heavy loads recruit high-threshold motor units, producing greater strength adaptations.
Origin
Neurophysiological concept; applied to exercise science and strength training.
Fun Fact
Motor unit recruitment follows Henneman's Size Principle: low-threshold units recruit first, high-threshold units only at high intensity—this is why heavy weight > light weight.
Source: Exercise Physiology, neuromuscular science
Related Terms
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