General
eccentric
What does eccentric mean?
The phase of a rep where the muscle lengthens as you lower the weight under control.
"A slow eccentric on the bench builds serious chest."
Origin
Exercise-physiology term for the lengthening contraction.
Frequently asked questions
What is the eccentric phase of a lift?
It's the lowering part of a rep where the working muscle lengthens under load, like descending into a squat or lowering the bar to your chest.
Why do people train the eccentric slowly?
Slowing the eccentric increases time under tension and is popular for building muscle and control, since muscles can handle more load while lengthening.
Is the eccentric the same as the negative?
Yes, lifters often call the eccentric phase 'the negative,' especially when emphasising a slow, controlled lowering.
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