Describe the difference between muscular strength and power.

Muscular strength refers to the maximum amount of force that a muscle or group of muscles can exert in a single effort. It is focused on the capacity to lift or push heavy weights. In contrast, power is defined as the rate at which work is done or the speed of performing a particular task. It combines both strength and speed, representing how quickly that force can be applied.

The key distinction lies in the concept of "rate." While strength emphasizes the total force produced, power is concerned with how quickly that force can be generated. For example, a weightlifter may exhibit great strength when lifting heavy weights, but a sprinter would demonstrate power by rapidly applying force against the ground to accelerate quickly. Understanding this difference helps athletes train effectively for specific performance goals, either maximizing strength or enhancing power.