Which aspect of muscle contraction can be influenced by training?

Training can have a significant influence on all aspects of muscle contraction, including the size of muscle fibers, the speed of contraction, and the number of muscle fibers, which is why the most comprehensive answer is that all of these factors can be influenced by training.

Muscle hypertrophy refers to the increase in size of muscle fibers, which occurs as a result of strength training and resistance exercises. Regular training stimulates the muscle fibers to grow in response to the mechanical demands placed on them, leading to greater muscle mass and strength.

The speed of contraction can also be enhanced through specific types of training. For instance, plyometric and explosive strength training can improve the rate at which muscles can engage and contract. This is essential for athletes who need quick bursts of speed for their performance.

While the number of muscle fibers (muscle cell hyperplasia) does not typically increase significantly in adult humans, training can lead to adaptations in the nervous system that recruit more muscle fibers and increase overall strength during contraction. Enhanced neural coordination can effectively lead to a greater number of fibers being activated during physical activity.

Thus, training can influence all these aspects of muscle contraction, leading to improved performance in sports and fitness activities.