Definition
The full breakdown. What it is, why it matters, how to use it.
The eccentric is the 'negative' or lowering phase — squatting down, lowering a bench press, lowering from a pull-up. Muscle damage and growth signaling are highest during the eccentric, which is why controlled negatives (2–4 seconds) outperform dropped reps for hypertrophy.
Q & A
Real Questions
Question 01
Why are eccentrics so sore-inducing?
Lengthening contractions create the most micro-tears in muscle fibers, which is the primary driver of DOMS.
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Related Terms
- Training
Time Under Tension (TUT)
The total seconds a muscle is loaded during a set.
Open - Recovery
DOMS (Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness)
Muscle soreness peaking 24–72 hours after an unfamiliar or hard workout.
Open - Training
Concentric
The shortening phase of a rep, where the muscle contracts to move the load.
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