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Training

Bilateral Deficit

The phenomenon where combined single-limb strength exceeds two-limb strength.

The bilateral deficit is the observation that the force produced by both limbs together is less than the sum of each limb working independently. For example, your combined single-leg press might exceed your double-leg press. This is likely due to neural inhibition during bilateral movements. Unilateral training can help maximize force production.

Examples

  • Single-leg press: 100kg each = 200kg total
  • Double-leg press: only 180kg
  • Justification for unilateral training

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