Research

Mixed

Full range of motion (fROM) resistance training yields trivial to small advantages over partial range of motion (pROM) for overall muscle hypertrophy, strength, power, and body composition outcomes.

For most people, full range of motion is the best default for building muscle and strength because it offers a slight edge. However, the difference is small. If you have an injury that hurts at full depth, partial range of motion is still highly effective and better than nothing. If you are a powerlifter or sport-specific athlete, train the specific partial ranges relevant to your sport, as strength gains are specific to the angle trained.

GoodQualifiesMEDIUM confidence
Overall, our results suggest that using a full or long ROM may enhance results for most outcomes (strength, speed, power, muscle size, and body composition). Differences in adaptations are trivial to small.
Milo Wolf et al. · International Journal of Strength and Conditioning · 2023

Why this rating

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 studies, though GRADE ratings for strength/hypertrophy were 'Moderate' due to imprecision.

Source

Partial Vs Full Range of Motion Resistance Training: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Milo Wolf et al. · International Journal of Strength and Conditioning · 2023

Meta-analysis · 24 studiesCited 29×
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