Difference between hypertrophy and hyperplasia

Medicine / Health
2023-05-22T05:26:32+00:00

Difference between hypertrophy and hyperplasia

Introduction

Worldwide presence In bodybuilding and bodybuilding, it is common to hear the terms "hypertrophy" and "hyperplasia" when referring to muscle growth. Although both terms are related to increasing muscle size, there is a key difference between them.

Hypertrophy

Hypertrophy refers to an increase in muscle size through an increase in the size of muscle cells. This process It occurs when muscles are subjected to constant stress, whether through weight lifting, strength training, or resistance training. As a result, muscle cells adapt to the stress and begin to grow in size, which in turn increases the overall size of the muscle.

It is important to note that hypertrophy does not necessarily imply an increase in the number of muscle cells, but simply an increase in their size.

Hyperplasia

On the other hand, hyperplasia refers to an increase in muscle size through an increase in the number of muscle cells. Unlike hypertrophy, hyperplasia it is a process more controversial, since some studies suggest that the number of muscle cells in the human body It is genetically determined and cannot be increased through training or the use of anabolic steroids.

However, some animal studies have shown that hyperplasia can occur as a result of mechanical stress on muscle tissue.

Key differences

In summary, hypertrophy refers to an increase in muscle size through an increase in the size of muscle cells, while hyperplasia refers to an increase in muscle size through an increase in the number of muscle cells.

Importantly, while both forms of muscle growth are desirable for athletes and bodybuilders, hypertrophy is much more common and easier to achieve than hyperplasia, which remains an area of ​​active research in the field of muscle physiology. exercise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hypertrophy and hyperplasia are two terms used to describe muscle growth in sports and bodybuilding, and although both processes are related to increasing muscle size, there are key differences between them. While hypertrophy is more common and easier to achieve, hyperplasia remains an area of ​​active research in exercise physiology.

References

  • Wilson, J.M., & Loenneke, J.P. (2011). «A theoretical and practical review of muscular hypertrophy For training of strength." Strength & Conditioning Journal, 33(4), 60-69.
  • Evetovich, T.K., Bosch, A.N., & Housh, T.J. (2001). "Effects of hypertrophy and hyperplasia on strength and power." Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 15(3), 283-291.

Don't miss upcoming articles on sports and physical exercise! Follow us on our social media!


Twitter: @ejerciciofit

Instagram: @ejerciciofitmx

You may also be interested in this related content:

Related