What does hypertrophy refer to in muscle biology?

Hypertrophy refers specifically to the increase in the size of muscle fibers, rather than an increase in the number of fibers themselves. This phenomenon occurs as a response to resistance training and other forms of mechanical overload, which stimulate the muscle cells to adapt by increasing their cross-sectional area. This cellular adaptation results in stronger and larger muscles, improving performance in various physical activities.

Understanding hypertrophy is essential for coaches and athletes since it influences training programs, recovery strategies, and nutrition needs. The primary goal of many strength training programs is to induce hypertrophy to enhance muscle strength and athletic performance. In contrast, other options suggest changes in muscle fiber count or size reduction, which do not align with the definition of hypertrophy.