Post Activation Potentiation Explained

Get instantly stronger

In an industry full of fads and gimmicks, overpromising gurus and over-marketed systems or supplements, a method that promises to make you instantly stronger should be met with skepticism. If it isn’t, you are not doing your due diligence.

“Post activation potentiation”, at it’s core, is pretty simple. It’s where after lifting a heavy weight, a light weight seems even lighter than usual.

The contrast in between the two loads improves performance.

It’s often used for explosive movements like jumps and sprints — an athlete will squat a heavy weight…

…then perform the “lighter”, more dynamic movement afterwards.

You can use this method even if you aren’t an Olympic jumper, and just train to look good or be healthier. After doing a heavy set of 2-3 reps with around 90% of 1 rep max, going back down to 60% of your 1 rep max should feel like a total joke, and you can often get more reps than usual.

More reps=more growth.

I’ve experienced this phenomenon many times, and I highly advise everyone experiment with it in their training.

Essentially, it’s a combination of actions at the muscle fiber, nervous system and mechanical levels. Or, in simpler terms:

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