Stretch marks from weightlifting are caused by the rapid expansion of the skin due to significant muscle growth. As muscles grow quickly in response to intense training, the skin struggles to keep up with the underlying changes, leading to micro-tears in the dermis (the middle layer of the skin). These tears manifest as stretch marks, often appearing as reddish or purple streaks that later fade to a lighter tone.

Common areas affected include the shoulders, chest, arms, and thighs, where muscle growth is most pronounced. Factors such as genetics, skin type, hydration, and the pace of muscle gain play a role in determining how susceptible someone is to developing stretch marks. Rapid changes, especially during bulking phases, increase the likelihood of these marks forming.

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