According to a new study, one type of muscle contraction is most effective at increasing muscle strength and muscle size. The research led by the scientists from Edith Cowan University (ECU) revealed that rather than lifting weights, the emphasis should be on lowering them.

In the study, a group of participants was asked to perform different types of dumbbell curl exercises for a definite period. On measuring the muscle mass, it was found that those who only lowered a weight showed the same improvements as those who raised and lowered weights, despite only performing half the number of repetitions.

The results of the study emphasized that the focus should be on "eccentric" muscles to increase the strength and size of muscles rather than their volume. The lead author stated that most people believe the lifting action provides the most benefit or at least some benefit; however, as per the study results, concentric muscle contractions contribute very little to the training effects.

(Source: https://theprint.in/health/research-shows-one-type-of-muscle-contraction-is-effective-at-increasing-muscle-strength-and-size/1198857/ )