Strength refers to the ability of muscles to generate force, often measured by the maximum amount of weight a person can lift. Hypertrophy, on the other hand, is the increase in muscle size, typically achieved through resistance training and an increase in muscle fiber size. While strength and hypertrophy are related, they can be influenced by different training approaches. Strength training focuses on improving the nervous system's ability to recruit muscle fibers efficiently, while hypertrophy training emphasizes muscle size through volume and intensity.

Strength and hypertrophy are distinct aspects of muscle adaptation, each with its own focus and mechanisms. Strength primarily involves the nervous system's efficiency in recruiting muscle fibers. During strength training, the emphasis is on enhancing neural pathways, allowing muscles to generate more force. This often involves lower repetitions with heavier weights, promoting neuromuscular adaptations.

Hypertrophy, on the other hand, centers on increasing muscle size through the enlargement of muscle fibers. This occurs through repeated muscle contractions and stress, commonly achieved through moderate to high repetition ranges with sufficient volume. Hypertrophy training stimulates the growth of muscle cells, leading to an increase in overall muscle mass. While strength and hypertrophy can overlap, they represent distinct physiological responses to different training stimuli. Optimal training programs often integrate both components for a well-rounded approach to muscle development.