Eccentric

Biomechanics

Short definition

Eccentric contraction — the muscle lengthens under load.

Full definition

Eccentric contraction occurs when the muscle produces force while lengthening (e.g. lowering the bar in a bench press). It generates more force than concentric or isometric contractions and causes more fibre damage.

Examples

The eccentric phase of the bench press is a 4-second lowering.

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