GLOSSARY

Want to know your negative reps from your isometric holds? Here we explain all the terms you'll find in this issue (and more)

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AMRAP

Short for “as many reps [or rounds] as possible”. This is a training protocol where you typically have a set timeframe in which you should complete as many reps of a series of exercises as quickly as you can, only resting when absolutely necessary.

Compound exercise

An exercise that involves movement in two or more joints, such as the squat, deadlift and shoulder press. Such lifts should form the basis of programmes where increasing muscle size and improving strength are the main objectives.

Concentric contraction

During concentric contractions the muscle shortens while generating force. Concentric muscle actions are responsible for the ‘raising’ part of an exercise, such as lifting a dumbbell from your side to shoulder during a biceps curl.

DOMS

Delayed-onset muscle soreness, or the aches you get the day after a workout. Often caused by severe trauma to the muscles, for instance by doing eccentrics, drop sets or forced reps.

Eccentric contraction

During eccentric contractions the muscle lengthens under tension when controlling a weight. This usually means the “lowering” part of an exercise, such as the biceps elongating as you control the weight back to the start position during a biceps curl.