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What is Concentric Strength?
The push, the sprint, the explosive lift. Concentric strength drives every powerful movement in sports. Find out how to train it right.
Paco Raven
April 3rd, 2025
What is Concentric Strength?
Concentric strength is the ability to produce force while a muscle shortens. It’s responsible for overcoming resistance, initiating movement, and generating explosive power in athletic performance.
Table of Contents
What Concentric Strength Actually Is?
Imagine trying to jump as high as possible or lifting a heavy barbell off the ground. The moment your muscles contract to propel you upward or move the weight is concentric strength in action.
Think about a sprinter’s first explosive step, a boxer’s knockout punch, or a powerlifter locking out a deadlift. These movements rely heavily on concentric force to generate speed, power, and acceleration.
Developing concentric strength enhances an athlete’s ability to move forcefully, dominate physically, and sustain high-intensity efforts over time.
Mechanics of Concentric Strength
Muscles Involved: All major muscle groups, particularly those responsible for explosive movements (quads, hamstrings, glutes, chest, shoulders, and arms).
Type of Training: Explosive lifts, speed-strength work, plyometrics, and isokinetic training.
Where It’s Most Used: Acceleration, jumping, striking, sprinting, and lifting.
Components of Movement: Force production, muscle activation, neuromuscular efficiency.