Definition: A concentric muscle contraction is a type of muscle activation that increases tension on a muscle as it shortens. Concentric contractions are the most common types of muscle activation athletes perform in a gym when lifting weights.
Exercises That Cause Concentric Contractions
Common exercises that cause concentric contractions include the lifting phase of a bicep curl, a squat or a pull up. Running up hill or climbing stairs also causes the quadriceps to contract concentrically. Concentric contractions are common to many sports in which you need to generate a lot of power or explosive force.
Also Known As: Muscle shortening
