What factors catalyze muscle growth with resistance training?

Muscle growth, also known as hypertrophy, during resistance training is primarily driven by mechanical tension. This refers to the force produced when muscles contract against a resistance, like weights. When the muscle fibers are subjected to mechanical tension beyond what they are used to, it creates microscopic tears in the muscle tissue. This damage is a critical stimulus for the body to initiate repair and adaptation processes, leading to muscle growth over time.

In addition to mechanical tension, other factors can contribute to muscle growth, such as metabolic stress and muscle damage; however, mechanical tension is most directly responsible for signaling muscle adaptation and hypertrophy.

Understanding that mechanical tension is fundamental to stimulating the various cellular and molecular responses necessary for muscle growth can guide individuals in optimizing their resistance training regimens for maximal effectiveness.