What does the term 'Eccentric Contraction' refer to?

The term 'Eccentric Contraction' refers to the lengthening of a muscle while it is under tension. This occurs when a muscle is activated and generates force while it is being elongated, which is common in activities that involve lowering weights or controlling movement against gravity. For instance, during a squat, as you lower your body down, the quadriceps muscles lengthen while still exerting force to control the descent. This type of contraction plays a crucial role in strengthening muscles and improving overall stability and control. It is distinct from concentric contractions, where muscles shorten while generating force, and can significantly impact functional movement and injury prevention.