What Is the Strength Curve?

What Is the Strength Curve?

We are searching data for your request:

Forums and discussions:
Manuals and reference books:
Data from registers:
Wait the end of the search in all databases.

Strength training isn't just about lifting the heaviest weights you can. It's about developing your body's strength efficiently and effectively, which requires careful attention to proper form. If you're not sure how to perform exercises correctly or how to choose the right weights, consult a certified fitness instructor. One concept an instructor might teach you is how to use a full range of motion to maximize the benefit of a particular exercise's strength curve.

Strength Curves

A strength curve is a graphed line that represents the amount of force you can produce over a range of motion. The strength curves of various exercises fall into three basic categories: ascending, descending and bell-shaped.

Ascending Strength Curve

An ascending strength curve means you can apply more force toward the end of the motion than you can during the beginning or middle phase. For example, when performing a squat, it's possible to lift more weights if you only perform the latter portion of the movement -- in other words, if you don't start low to the ground with your knees bent, it's easier to lift heavier weights during a squat.

Descending Strength Curve

A descending strength curve means the exercise becomes more difficult toward the latter portion of the motion. For example, row exercises require less strength at the beginning of the motion than they do at the end, when the elbows are drawn back. In other words, as the rowing motion progresses, the exercise becomes more difficult.

Bell-Shaped Strength Curve

Some exercises have a bell-shaped strength curve. This means the beginning and end phases of the exercise are more difficult than the middle phase. For instance, during a bicep curl, the most difficult phases of the exercise occur at the beginning, when the arm is fully extended, and at the end, when the arm is nearly contracted. The middle phase of the motion, in contrast, is relatively easy to perform.


Strength curves make it possible to lift heavier weights if you only perform a part of an exercise rather than the full range of motion. For example, if you start a bench press with the bar far from your chest, you'll be able to lift heavier weights. While lifting heavier weights might be satisfying, failing to perform the full range of motion limits your muscle development, because performing a full range of motion develops greater strength during all phases of that exercise's movement, rather than just during a single phase. In other words, it's better for strength development to lift lighter weights with proper form than it is to lift heavy weights and fail to perform a full range of motion.