The HyPaultrophy podcast The difference in LENGTH and STRETCH - why ACTIVATION is more important than force production
Jun 29, 2024
Discover the intriguing difference between muscle length and stretch, and why activation trumps force production for growth. Delve into muscle activation principles and debunk fitness myths surrounding hypertrophy. Explore the pitfalls in muscle research measurements and the importance of neuromechanical matching. Learn how reducing training volume can actually boost muscle growth, and why frequency might be more critical than you think. Unravel the complexities of muscle physiology and the science behind effective strength training techniques.
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Activation Drives Muscle Growth
- Activation of muscle fibers is a prerequisite for hypertrophy; inactive fibers do not grow.
- Muscle length and stretch alone don't determine growth; activation and leverage at joint angles are key.
Neuromechanical Matching Governs Activation
- Neuromechanical matching determines which muscles are activated based on leverage and joint angles.
- The brain prioritizes activating muscles that can efficiently produce torque, ignoring passive tension.
Pick Exercises for Activation
- Choose exercises that maximize muscle activation by targeting joint angles with greatest leverage.
- Focus on activation rather than just muscle length or stretch for optimal hypertrophy.