The Claim
In untrained young adults, comparing eccentric tempo of 2 seconds versus 4 seconds during unilateral knee extension exercises does not meaningfully affect gains in one-repetition maximum (1RM) strength, despite the difference in time under tension.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
If you're a young adult who hasn't trained much before, slowing down the lowering part of a leg extension from 2 seconds to 4 seconds won't make you significantly stronger, even though your muscle is under tension longer.
See the scientific wording
In untrained young adults, eccentric tempo (2s vs 4s) does not meaningfully affect 1RM strength gains in unilateral knee extension, despite differences in time under tension.
What the research says
1 studyStudy: Effect of different eccentric tempos on hypertrophy and strength of the lower limbs
The study had people do leg extensions with either a slow (4-second) or fast (2-second) lowering phase, and found that both groups got just as strong — so slowing down the lowering part didn’t make them stronger.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.