Final answer:
Injuries are more likely to occur during eccentric muscle action because muscles are controlling the load in a lengthened state which can lead to greater stress on muscle fibers and connective tissues. Proper technique and recovery are critical to reduce the risk of injury. Eccentric contractions, compared to concentric ones, entail more force exerted on the muscles.
Step-by-step explanation:
Eccentric Muscle Action and Risk of Injury
During eccentric muscle action, muscles are at a greater risk of injury compared to concentric contractions. This type of muscle contraction occurs when a muscle lengthens under tension, such as when lowering a hand weight in a controlled manner. The high load on the muscle during its lengthening phase can lead to more significant damage to the muscle fibers, as well as increased stress on the tendons and joints, which can result in injury if not performed correctly. Compared to concentric contractions, where the muscle shortens as it contracts, like bringing the hand weight up, eccentric contractions require the muscle to control the descent of a load against gravity, leading to higher forces being exerted on the muscle.
It's important to use proper technique and allow sufficient recovery time to prevent the risk of injury during resistance training that involves eccentric contractions. Factors like the use of heavy loads, insufficient rest, and improper joint alignment can exacerbate the risk. Moreover, skeletal muscles operate in pairs, with one muscle usually acting as a flexor and the other as an extensor, balancing each other out and facilitating movement. However, if one muscle is overexerted or used improperly, it can result in conditions such as "tennis elbow" and other overuse injuries.
Overall, understanding how to properly engage in eccentric muscle action can help minimize injury risks and enhance the effectiveness of workouts.