Key facts
- The 'lifting' or shortening phase.
- Paired with the eccentric (lowering) phase.
- Often performed explosively to develop power.
- Where you push hardest against the load.
Every rep has two halves. The concentric phase is the lifting part, where the muscle shortens — pushing the bar up in a bench press or standing up out of a squat. It's the phase where you actively produce force to overcome the load.
Lifters often aim to move the concentric phase with intent or even explosively (while staying in control), which helps develop power and recruit muscle fibres. Paired with a controlled eccentric (lowering) phase, deliberate concentric effort makes each rep more effective.
Frequently asked questions
What is the concentric phase?
It's the lifting phase of a rep, where the muscle shortens to move the weight — like pressing the bar up or standing out of a squat.
Should I lift the concentric phase fast?
Moving the lifting phase with intent or explosively (while controlled) can help develop power and recruit muscle, as long as technique stays solid.
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