Definition
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.
Real questions
Why are eccentrics so sore inducing?
Lengthening contractions create the most micro tears in muscle fibers, which is the primary driver of DOMS.
Stack with
Put it to work
Coach Foster builds your program around eccentric and the rest of the fundamentals, shaped to your body and your week.