What is a negative in weightlifting?

A negative repetition (negative rep) is the repetition of a technique in weight lifting in which the lifter performs the eccentric phase of a lift. ... Negative reps are used to improve both muscular strength and power in subjects, this is commonly known as hypertrophy training. read more

For example, if you are doing a negative bench press, you would start with the weight in the top position (the weight would be more than you could lift on your own if you had to push it back up), lower that heavy weight under control to the bottom position of the exercise, then have a partner help you return the weight back to the top position. read more

Negative training is a technique that power lifters and bodybuilders rely on to see gains that are sometimes elusive with ordinary training. If you're serious about taking your weight lifting and your body to the next level -- and you don't mind some soreness -- negative training is your ticket off the plateau. read more