How is muscular strength typically assessed?

Muscular strength is assessed by determining how much force a muscle or group of muscles can exert against resistance. The correct approach involves using maximum or near-maximum resistance combined with a low number of repetitions. This methodology is grounded in the principle that to gauge strength accurately, the load must be significant enough to challenge the muscles. By testing with heavier weights for fewer repetitions, it reveals the maximum strength capabilities of an individual, as it forces the muscles to engage fully and exert their highest possible force.

On the other hand, using low resistance and high repetitions typically assesses muscular endurance rather than strength. Moderate resistance with several repetitions may provide some insight into a subject's muscular fitness, but it is less effective for accurately measuring maximal strength. Using body weight as resistance can also be a valuable tool for assessing strength, particularly in functional movements, but it does not specifically measure maximum strength in the same way as using heavy weights does. The focus on maximum or near-maximum resistance with few repetitions offers the clearest and most reliable assessment of muscular strength.