Workouts

Time under tension (TUT) refers to the amount of time a muscle is actively engaged during a set, and it’s a crucial factor in resistance training. Increasing TUT can enhance muscle growth, strength, and endurance in several key ways.

 

First, prolonged tension forces muscles to maintain constant contraction, which maximizes muscle fiber recruitment. This leads to a greater breakdown of muscle tissue, which, when repaired, results in muscle growth (hypertrophy). By slowing down movements, particularly during the eccentric (lowering) phase, you increase the amount of time the muscle is under stress, stimulating more growth.Second, TUT improves muscular endurance. As the muscle is held under tension for longer periods, it adapts by becoming more efficient at sustaining effort. This is particularly beneficial for athletes or anyone looking to improve overall stamina.

Finally, increasing TUT also helps develop control and coordination. By focusing on slower, more deliberate movements, you learn to engage muscles more effectively and reduce the risk of injury. This can be especially important when training for specific functional movements or rehabilitating an injury.

Overall, incorporating time under tension into resistance workouts offers a way to push the boundaries of muscle growth, endurance, and technique, all while enhancing the quality of the workout.