What does the term "concentric motion" mean in strength training?

The term "concentric motion" in strength training refers to a type of muscular contraction where the muscle shortens while generating force. This typically occurs during the lifting phase of an exercise, for example, when performing a bicep curl, the bicep muscle shortens as you lift the weight upward.

In this scenario, the action produces positive work; the muscle contracts to overcome resistance, resulting in movement that leads to an increase in tension without the muscle elongating. This is fundamental to building muscle strength and mass since concentric contractions are a key component of resistance training exercises.

The other options involve different types of muscle contractions. One describes the eccentric motion, which is when a muscle lengthens under tension, usually as it controls the lowering phase of the exercise. The others refer to static or isometric contractions, where muscle length does not change, leading to no movement. Understanding the nuances of these contractions is essential for designing effective strength training programs.