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fast-twitch vs. slow-twitch

fast-twitch vs. slow-twitch: What's the difference?

Fast-twitch and slow-twitch are types of muscle fibers discussed frequently in athletic contexts. Slow-twitch muscle fibers contract slowly and are specialized for endurance, while fast-twitch muscle fibers contract quickly and are specialized for power (e.g., sprinting). All muscles have a combination of the two types, but proportions can be different based on the muscle’s functions as well as a person’s training and genetics.

fast-twitch

[ fast-twich, fahst- ]
adjective
  1. of or relating to muscle fiber that contracts relatively rapidly, utilized especially in actions requiring maximum effort of short duration, as sprinting (distinguished from slow-twitch).

slow-twitch

[ sloh-twich ]
adjective
  1. of or relating to muscle fiber that contracts relatively slowly and is resistant to fatigue (distinguished from fast-twitch).