Muscles are one of the most important parts of our body. They help us perform various physical movements, from something as simple as walking to more complex activities like lifting weights or playing sports. While we may not think about it often, muscles are constantly contracting, which allows us to move our bodies. But did you know that there are two types of muscle contractions that happen in the body? Let`s take a closer look at what they are.
The two types of muscle contractions are concentric and eccentric. Concentric contractions occur when the muscle is shortening and generating force. This type of contraction occurs when you lift a weight with your bicep, for example. As you bring the weight up towards your shoulder, your bicep muscle is contracting concentrically. This type of contraction is often associated with “positive” movements, or movements where the muscle is generating force to lift or move something.
On the other hand, eccentric contractions occur when the muscle is lengthening and generating force. This type of contraction occurs when you lower a weight with your bicep. As you bring the weight back down towards your starting position, your bicep muscle is contracting eccentrically. This type of contraction is often associated with “negative” movements, or movements where the muscle is generating force to resist gravity or slow down a movement.
Both types of muscle contractions are important for building strength and muscle mass. Concentric contractions are often used in traditional weightlifting exercises like bicep curls and bench presses, while eccentric contractions are often used in exercises like the eccentric portion of a push-up or a slow, controlled lowering of a weight.
Understanding the differences between concentric and eccentric contractions can also help with injury prevention. Eccentric contractions are known to create more stress on the muscle fibers, which can lead to muscle soreness and even injury if not properly managed. By understanding when you are performing an eccentric contraction, you can take the necessary precautions to prevent injury.
In conclusion, knowing the differences between concentric and eccentric muscle contractions can help you better understand how your muscles work and how to properly train them. Incorporating both types of contractions into your workouts can help you see better results and prevent injury. So next time you hit the gym, keep these muscle contractions in mind and make the most out of your workout.