Stretch-Shortening Cycle

How does the stretch-shortening cycle work and how does it relate to exercise?

As a muscle lengthens, it contracts and produces elastic energy. The force applied to the muscle increases. When a muscle is stretched, it will attempt to rebound to its resting length. During the eccentric contraction, the muscle stores elastic energy. Muscular tension increases. The elastic energy that has been stored is available for powerful, explosive movements. By stretching the muscle before it contracts, the muscle contracts with greater force. When the muscles contract, the combined forces of muscle contraction and elastic recoil produce more force than either factor alone. The bench press is a good example of the coordination of stretch and muscle contraction. This movement uses the eccentric, elastic and concentric phases as a combination during the lifting and lowering of the weight.