One resistance training variable that may be altered to achieve desired outcomes is the range of motion used in training. Generally, the strength and conditioning field has accepted that using a greater range of motion in strength training exercises results in more substantial muscle hypertrophy outcomes. However, this theory has proved to be inconsistently supported in the literature, and to date, no sufficient explanation exists to explain this phenomenon. This review article seeks to outline a novel approach for potentially describing the disparities seen in range of motion research with respect to hypertrophy outcomes by applying the unique length-tension curve of each muscle being examined. As will be discussed in the review, virtually all the results from range of motion studies in various muscles have corresponded to each muscle’s length-tension curve; muscles that are active on the descending limb of the curve appear to garner greater hypertrophy from using larger ranges of motion. Conversely, muscles that are not active on the descending limb exhibit similar adaptations despite alterations in range of motion. A novel hypothesis for applying this information to resistance training programs will be presented and discussed.

This infographic discusses factors to consider when training to muscle failure.

Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to “pump iron” to build muscle. In this session from the NSCA’s 2015 Personal Trainers Conference, Nick Tumminello explains that to build muscle you need to create a training stimulus that elicits the three mechanisms for muscle growth. In other words, building muscle is not about the specific exercises you do, it is about the specific stimulus you create.

Consumption of dietary protein by athletes is a common intervention to maximize gains in muscle and strength, and to improve body composition. The purpose of this article is to analyze the current research on the optimal amount of dietary protein for resistance training athletes.

There is a sound theoretical rationale supporting a potential role for muscle damages in the hypertrophic response, but a cause-effect relationship directly linking these gains to muscle damage is yet to be established. If such a relationship does in fact exist, it is not clear as to what extent of damage is optimal for inducing maximum muscle growth.

This Kinetic Select from Developing the Core reviews the effects of muscle activity when performing exercises on unstable surfaces.

This article briefly explains the two principles necessary for muscle growth.

Training Techniques for Optimal Muscle Gain and Fat Loss

The manipulation of resistance training (RT) variables is widely considered an essential strategy to maximize muscular adaptations. One variable that has received substantial attention in this regard is RT volume. This infographic provides evidence-based guidelines as to volume when creating RT programs designed to maximize muscle hypertrophy.

Lateral ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries sustained during sport or physical activity. Up to 40% of individuals can develop chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) after a lateral ankle sprain. CLAI occurs when functional or mechanical insufficiencies of the lateral ankle ligamentous complex persist. The purpose of this article is to identify characteristics of CLAI and describe strength and conditioning strategies that can be used to treat lateral ankle ligamentous injuries, preventing them from progressing on to CLAI.