Negative repetition
The term negative repetition (negative training) is mainly used in strength training .
procedure
Each exercise consists of two different phases of movement. First, the overcoming ( concentric ) phase, in which the resistance is overcome, such as when stretching up from the squat. Second, the yielding ( eccentric ) phase, in which one yields against gravity, such as when crouching down for squats.
The yielding (eccentric) phase is known as negative repetition. For squats , as described, the negative repetition consists of crouching; in the bench press , the negative repetition consists of lowering the dumbbell onto the chest.
In the yielding (eccentric) phase of the exercise, more weight can be moved than in the overcoming (concentric) phase. Therefore, in strength training, negative reps are mainly used to use more weight than is normally possible. However, this usually requires a training partner who brings the weight back to the starting position after the negative repetition is completed.
Negative repetitions are also suitable for strength training with your own body weight to improve yourself. For example, when doing a pull- up, athletes can lower themselves from the upper position in the form of a negative repetition rather than pulling themselves up. In colloquial terms, negative repetitions are referred to as "negatives".