Time Under Tension

Time under tension (TUT) is refers to the time a muscle in placed under load in an individual set of an exercise. The key factors determining TUT is the reps and tempo performed.

Time under tension can be calculated using the exercise tempo multiplied by the number of repetitions performed and recorded in seconds.

[Eccentric(sec) + Eccentric Pause(sec) + Concentric(sec) + Concentric Pause(sec)] x reps = Time Under Tension (TUT)

Total time under tension can be used to calculate the total time a muscle is placed under tension within the single training session.

Using bands, chains and variable cams on machines can alter the strength curve. Alteration of the strength curve may alter the time under tension effect.

Both research and practical application has shown that TUT is a key factor in determining training results however the real world application and text book theory yields two different results.