Differences in muscle strength between individuals seem to be mostly explained by differences in muscle mass,[1][2][3][4][5] which is supported by the mechanistic rationale that a larger muscle has greater force-generating capacity.[6] Other contributors to muscle strength include neural factors,[7] such as the threshold at which motor units are recruited and the motor unit discharge rate, and genetics.[8] Additionally, simply practicing the test used to examine strength (e.g., a back squat 1-repetition maximum) can promote increases in strength.[9][10]
Which other factors affect muscle strength?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Muscle strength differences among individuals are primarily attributed to variations in muscle mass because larger muscles can generate more force. Other influencing factors include neural aspects, genetics, and practice of strength-testing exercises.