A reader recently sent me a link to a post on a HIT blog recommending fast repetition speeds and claiming they were necessary to recruit the high threshold, fast twitch motor units. Although I just posted a Q&A on repetition speed, motor unit recruitment and stimulation last week and am probably just repeating myself I…
Tag Archive: explosive training
Q&A: Repetition Speed, Recruitment and Stimulation
This Q&A is a response to several questions I’ve recently received. Since they’re all related I’m going to answer them together. Since intentionally moving slowly during exercise involves less than a maximum effort wouldn’t it reduce motor unit recruitment and the effectiveness of the exercise? No. Motor unit recruitment is determined by the amount of force…
Personal Trainers are Confused
“Bodybuilders are Confused” is the title of the first chapter in Mike Mentzer’s book Heavy Duty which describes the nonsense and conflicting information most bodybuilders must sort through in their quest for valid information on building bigger muscles. In it, Mike explains how commercial interests, tradition, and a lack of critical thinking skills and understanding…
Exercises, Equipment Modes and Rep Duration: The Question of Superiority
I just received the following article from Ken Mannie, head strength and conditioning coach at Michigan State University, with permission to post it here. Exercises, Equipment Modes and Rep Duration: The Question of Superiority by Ken Mannie The training landscape is in a state of continual flux, and the ongoing changes, updates, and emergence of…
Explosive Training
The following article is published here with the permission of the author, Ken Mannie, Head Strength & Conditioning Coach at Michigan State University The subject of explosive weight training is one that has been in the center of a maelstrom among strength and conditioning practitioners for quite some time. Many individuals and some associations advocate…
