Definition
The controlled lowering phase of an exercise, typically performed with heavier weight than you can lift concentrically. It's the part of the rep where gravity becomes your training partner and your muscles scream about the betrayal.
Example Usage
After three sets of negative reps, I couldn't straighten my arms for four days, which made everything from eating to existing mildly inconvenient.
Origin
Developed in strength training research in the 1970s studying eccentric muscle actions
Fun Fact
You're approximately 40% stronger during the eccentric (negative) phase than the concentric phase, which is why you can lower weights you absolutely cannot lift.
Source: Strength training and bodybuilding terminology
Related Terms
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