Figure 4.

Applications of eccentric training. Eccentric contractions have the properties of high force output and low metabolic demand (top row). There properties allow the musculoskeletal system to be stressed in different ways, compared to conventional concentric exercise, leading to specific training benefits (middle row). These benefits are particularly appropriate for different applications (bottom row). For example, the low cardiac output and low perceived exertion that results from the low energetic cost of eccentric training is particular beneficial for rehabilitation of frail elderly or persons with cardiomyopathy. Adapted from Lindstedt et al. (2001).