What does "eccentric" refer to in the context of a push-up?

In the context of a push-up, the term "eccentric" specifically refers to the downward phase of the exercise. During this phase, the muscles are lengthening while under tension. For instance, as you lower your body toward the ground, your chest, shoulder, and arm muscles are controlling the descent against gravity. This eccentric contraction is important for muscle development, as it helps to increase strength, stability, and overall performance. Additionally, it has been shown that eccentric training can contribute to muscle hypertrophy (growth) and aid in injury prevention by improving tendon strength. Understanding this phase is crucial for designing effective training regimens that optimize muscle engagement and results.