The eccentric phase occurs whenever the muscle is lengthening under tension, such as when you are lowering the bar during the bicep curl. This “negative” phase generates resistance that produces micro-tears in the muscle, strengthening it as it recovers. For endurance athletes, eccentric training (slow weight lowering or running downslope) toughens the connective tissues, reduces the likelihood of injury, and enhances the control of the muscles in long events.
1 Word. Every Saturday. That’s it!
Master your Endurance Knowledge!
