Mixed
Longer-muscle length resistance training (LML-RT) produces greater muscle hypertrophy than shorter-muscle length resistance training (SML-RT).
To maximize muscle growth, prioritize exercises that allow you to train at longer muscle lengths (e.g., deep squats, overhead presses, or lengthened partials). While you can still grow with partial ROM, the evidence suggests that loading the muscle in its stretched position yields superior hypertrophy, particularly in the distal regions of the muscle.
Our results suggest that both muscle size and fascicle length increases may be greater following LML-RT versus SML-RT, suggesting LML-RT may lead to greater longitudinal hypertrophy than SML-RT.
Why this rating
The review includes 8 studies with mixed results and significant methodological limitations (e.g., use of linear extrapolation for fascicle length).
Source
Does longer-muscle length resistance training cause greater longitudinal growth in humans? A systematic review
Milo Wolf et al. · Sports Medicine and Health Science · 2025
DOI 10.1016/j.smhs.2025.03.001
Related findings · Mixed
- Bariatric surgery (VSG and RYGB) is the most effective and sustainable treatment for obesity, producing marked and sustained weight loss that non-surgical interventions cannot match.Strong
- Severely protein-deficient diets (2–3% energy) induce lean body mass loss and metabolic imbalance, whereas adequate protein intake (0.66 g/kg/d minimum) is a prerequisite for maintaining muscle, bone, and physiological function.Strong
- For patients with Class III obesity (BMI >39.9 kg/m2), metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) is significantly more effective than any currently approved medication, with BilioPancreatic Diversion (BPD) showing the highest estimated weight loss.Strong
This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →