Muscle contraction is the tightening, shortening, or lengthening of muscles when you do some activity. It can happen when you hold or pick up something, or when you stretch or exercise with weights.

New research has shown one type of muscle contraction is most effective at increasing muscle strength and muscle size -- and rather than lifting weights, the emphasis should be on lowering them. Good ...

When you take a muscle through the full range of motion, it goes through three phases of muscle contraction: eccentric, isometric, and concentric. Placing more attention on one phase can yield ...

What Are Eccentric and Concentric Contractions? Eccentric contractions occur when a muscle lengthens under load, such as lowering a dumbbell during a biceps curl. Concentric contractions happen when ...

This is a common strength training technique that involves manipulating the muscle lengthening portion of an exercise, usually by slowing down the movement. Share on Pinterest Getty Images/Eugenio ...

1 School of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences, University of Wales, Bangor, George Building, Holyhead Road, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2PX, UK 2 Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma, ...

Good news for those who struggle to fit a gym workout into their day: you may be able to cut your weights routine in half and still see the same results. New research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) ...