Motor Unit Recruitment
The activation of motor units to generate force.
Updated
Motor unit recruitment is how the nervous system activates motor units to produce force. Recruitment follows the size principle: smaller motor units are recruited first, with larger ones added as force demands increase. Training can improve recruitment - a major factor in early strength gains. Heavy training improves the ability to recruit high-threshold motor units.
Examples
- Light loads recruit few motor units
- Heavy loads recruit all available units
- Improved recruitment from training
Related Terms
Compound exercises
Put this into practice with exercises from the library.
Chest Push (multiple response)
Plyometrics · Medicine Ball
Chest Push (single response)
Plyometrics · Medicine Ball
Chest Push with Run Release
Plyometrics · Medicine Ball
Chin-Up
Strength · Bodyweight
Circus Bell
Strongman · Other
Clean
Olympic Weightlifting · Barbell
Clean Deadlift
Olympic Weightlifting · Barbell
Clean Pull
Olympic Weightlifting · Barbell
Common questions
What is Motor Unit Recruitment?
The activation of motor units to generate force. Motor unit recruitment is how the nervous system activates motor units to produce force.
What exercises train the Motor Unit Recruitment?
Good options include Chest Push (multiple response), Chest Push (single response), Chest Push with Run Release, Chin-Up, Circus Bell. Each links to a step-by-step guide with demonstration images.
What are examples of Motor Unit Recruitment?
Light loads recruit few motor units; Heavy loads recruit all available units; Improved recruitment from training.
Put it into practice
12-Week Muscle Building · £29
A 12-week, four-day hypertrophy plan in three phases, with a modest calorie surplus