Which type of contraction primarily leads to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)?

The primary type of contraction that leads to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is eccentric contraction. Eccentric contractions occur when a muscle lengthens while under tension, which typically happens during activities such as downhill running or slowly lowering weights. This type of contraction places significant strain on the muscle fibers, resulting in microscopic damage.

As the body repairs this damage, inflammation occurs, which contributes to the sensation of soreness that arises 24 to 72 hours after the physical activity. The physiological process involves the release of various inflammatory markers and the activation of repair mechanisms, leading to the characteristic soreness associated with DOMS.

In contrast, isometric contractions (where the muscle exerts force without changing length), static movements (which usually refer to holding positions without movement), and concentric contractions (where muscle shortens while generating force) are less likely to cause significant damage to muscle fibers in the same way that eccentric contractions do. As a result, they do not typically lead to DOMS to the same extent. Understanding this distinction is crucial for coaches and athletes looking to manage training loads and anticipate recovery after intense workouts.