The Claim

In untrained young adults, 8 weeks of knee extension training performed with either a 2-second or 4-second eccentric tempo results in similar overall quadriceps hypertrophy and no meaningful difference in 1RM strength gains.

Source: Effect of different eccentric tempos on hypertrophy and strength of the lower limbs

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
54score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Quantitative
1 study reviewed
In plain English

If you're a young adult who hasn't trained before and you do leg extensions slowly—either taking 2 seconds or 4 seconds to lower the weight—your thigh muscles will grow about the same amount, and you'll get just as strong either way.

See the scientific wording

In untrained young adults, 8 weeks of knee extension training with either a 2-second or 4-second eccentric tempo produces similar overall quadriceps hypertrophy and no meaningful difference in 1RM strength gains.

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Effect of different eccentric tempos on hypertrophy and strength of the lower limbs

    The study found that doing knee extensions slowly (4 seconds) or faster (2 seconds) on the way down led to almost the same muscle growth and strength gains in young adults after 8 weeks — so the claim is right.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.