Final answer:
During the eccentric phase of a plyometric movement, the muscle tension diminishes and the muscle lengthens. This phase is important for movement and balance of the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
An eccentric contraction occurs as the muscle tension diminishes and the muscle lengthens. In this case, the hand weight is lowered in a slow and controlled manner as the amount of cross-bridges being activated by nervous system stimulation decreases. Eccentric contractions are also used for movement and balance of the body.
Eccentric contractions, also known as lengthening contractions or negative work, occur when a muscle generates force while lengthening. In contrast to concentric contractions, where a muscle shortens to produce force, eccentric contractions involve controlled lengthening of the muscle fibers while force is still being generated.