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Strength training an added benefit  There are numerous health benefits from strength exercise, including improved mood, depression relief, and better balance. More muscle burns more calories and thus can help control weight as well as blood sugar.  Absolute strength refers to the maximum weight that a person can lift in one repetition. If you spend time in a weight room or around people that regularly do strength exercises, you might overhear the following terms. One Repetition Maximum (1RM): The maximum amount of weight that can be lifted one time. Strength programs are designed based on this amount. For example, a person may train with an amount of weight that is 50 percent or 80 percent of 1RM. Repetition (rep): Eight to 15 repetitions are usually done. Set: A series of repetitions. One set is all that is needed to get substantial benefits. Frequency: A frequency of at least two times per week is recommended. Concentric Contraction: A type of muscle contraction where your muscle  fibers shorten to produce force. This happens when you lift or raise a weight. Eccentric Contraction: A type of muscle contraction where your muscle  fibers lengthen while they produce force. This happens when you lower the weight back down. This type of contraction is mainly responsible for the feeling of soreness after exercise. The soreness results from microscopic damage to the muscle cells that then stimulates them to regenerate and get stronger. A full-body conditioning class designed to challenge your muscular strength and balance is offered at the MUSC Wellness Center.  The class also focuses on core conditioning and strength through every range of motion. Content changes every two weeks. This class meets at noon every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at 8:30 a.m. every Tuesday,  and at 4:30 p.m. every Thursday.  For more information or to register, call the membership desk at 792-5757.   Friday, Jan. 21, 2005 Catalyst Online is published weekly, updated as needed and improved from time to time by the MUSC Office of Public Relations for the faculty, employees and students of the Medical University of South Carolina. Catalyst Online editor, Kim Draughn, can be reached at 792-4107 or by email, catalyst@musc.edu. Editorial copy can be submitted to Catalyst Online and to The Catalyst in print by fax, 792-6723, or by email to petersnd@musc.edu or catalyst@musc.edu. To place an ad in The Catalyst hardcopy, call Community Press at 849-1778.