What is eccentric training?

Eccentric training refers to a specific type of strength training that emphasizes the lengthening phase of muscle contraction, known as the eccentric phase. During this phase, muscles elongate under tension, which is a crucial element for muscle strengthening and growth. Engaging in eccentric movements can lead to greater muscle damage, which the body then repairs, resulting in muscle hypertrophy and increased strength. This type of training is often utilized in rehabilitation and sports performance to enhance overall muscle function and control during activities.

The other options do not accurately describe eccentric training. Explosive movements focus on the concentric phase where muscles shorten rapidly, and bodyweight training emphasizes the use of one's own body mass as resistance without specifically highlighting the eccentric component. Lastly, endurance training largely concentrates on aerobic capacity and prolonged activity rather than the specific muscle actions involved in eccentric training. Each of these aspects distinguishes them from the concept of lengthening muscles under tension, which is the hallmark of eccentric training.