What is the term for the ability of a muscle to contract repeatedly against a submaximal load?

The ability of a muscle to contract repeatedly against a submaximal load is called muscular endurance.

Unlike maximal strength, which concerns the greatest force produced in one effort, muscular endurance concerns sustaining or repeating force over time. Examples include performing many bodyweight squats, holding a plank, or repeatedly pressing a light resistance. The limiting factor may be local muscle fatigue, energy supply, or the nervous system’s ability to maintain the required output.

Muscular endurance is not the same as cardiovascular endurance. A long-distance run challenges both systems, but muscular endurance can also be tested locally, such as through repeated calf raises or push-ups. It is also distinct from muscular power, which combines force with speed, and flexibility, which concerns range of motion.

Training commonly uses lighter loads, higher repetitions, circuits, or sustained isometric holds. The exact result depends on the muscle group, load, rest intervals, technique, and whether the activity is dynamic or static.