Rate of force development (RFD) is a key measure of explosive strength, reflecting the ability to generate force rapidly during voluntary contractions. This review discusses the physiological and methodological factors influencing RFD, emphasizing the role of neuromuscular activation, motor unit (MU) discharge rate, and muscle properties. RFD is primarily determined by the capacity to achieve maximal voluntary activation in the early phase of a contraction, particularly through increased MU discharge rates. Both explosive-type and heavy-resistance strength training can enhance RFD by improving rapid muscle activation. However, accurately measuring RFD is challenging due to variability in neuromuscular function and methodological limitations. The review provides evidence-based recommendations for quantifying RFD in both research and clinical settings. Neural factors, such as MU recruitment and discharge rate, significantly influence RFD. During rapid contractions, MUs are recruited at lower forces compared to slow contractions, and the discharge rate of MUs increases dramatically, especially in trained individuals. The initial discharge rate is highest at the onset of contraction and declines with successive discharges. Surface electromyography (EMG) is a common method for assessing muscle activation, and studies show that RFD is closely related to EMG activity, particularly in the early phase of contraction. Muscle fibre type composition also plays a role in RFD. Type II fibres, which have higher contractile properties, contribute to faster RFD. However, inter-individual variability in RFD is influenced by factors beyond fibre type, including muscle size, architecture, and musculotendinous stiffness. Muscle size and cross-sectional area are strongly correlated with RFD, as larger muscles can generate more force. Additionally, the architecture of muscles, such as pennation angle, affects the rate of force rise, with parallel-fibered muscles generally exhibiting higher RFD. Musculotendinous stiffness influences RFD by affecting the speed of force transmission. Stiffer tendons can slow force transmission, while more compliant tendons allow for faster force development. Training can alter tendon stiffness, but the effects on RFD are often small compared to natural variability. Adaptive changes in RFD with training include increases in MU discharge rates, muscle activation, and muscle fibre type composition. Explosive-type strength training is particularly effective in enhancing RFD, as it promotes rapid muscle activation and increases in MU discharge rates. In contrast, endurance training may not significantly improve RFD. Overall, RFD is influenced by a complex interplay of neural and muscular factors, and accurate measurement requires careful consideration of methodological approaches. Understanding these factors is essential for designing effective training programs to improve explosive strength in athletes, elderly individuals, and patients.Rate of force development (RFD) is a key measure of explosive strength, reflecting the ability to generate force rapidly during voluntary contractions. This review discusses the physiological and methodological factors influencing RFD, emphasizing the role of neuromuscular activation, motor unit (MU) discharge rate, and muscle properties. RFD is primarily determined by the capacity to achieve maximal voluntary activation in the early phase of a contraction, particularly through increased MU discharge rates. Both explosive-type and heavy-resistance strength training can enhance RFD by improving rapid muscle activation. However, accurately measuring RFD is challenging due to variability in neuromuscular function and methodological limitations. The review provides evidence-based recommendations for quantifying RFD in both research and clinical settings. Neural factors, such as MU recruitment and discharge rate, significantly influence RFD. During rapid contractions, MUs are recruited at lower forces compared to slow contractions, and the discharge rate of MUs increases dramatically, especially in trained individuals. The initial discharge rate is highest at the onset of contraction and declines with successive discharges. Surface electromyography (EMG) is a common method for assessing muscle activation, and studies show that RFD is closely related to EMG activity, particularly in the early phase of contraction. Muscle fibre type composition also plays a role in RFD. Type II fibres, which have higher contractile properties, contribute to faster RFD. However, inter-individual variability in RFD is influenced by factors beyond fibre type, including muscle size, architecture, and musculotendinous stiffness. Muscle size and cross-sectional area are strongly correlated with RFD, as larger muscles can generate more force. Additionally, the architecture of muscles, such as pennation angle, affects the rate of force rise, with parallel-fibered muscles generally exhibiting higher RFD. Musculotendinous stiffness influences RFD by affecting the speed of force transmission. Stiffer tendons can slow force transmission, while more compliant tendons allow for faster force development. Training can alter tendon stiffness, but the effects on RFD are often small compared to natural variability. Adaptive changes in RFD with training include increases in MU discharge rates, muscle activation, and muscle fibre type composition. Explosive-type strength training is particularly effective in enhancing RFD, as it promotes rapid muscle activation and increases in MU discharge rates. In contrast, endurance training may not significantly improve RFD. Overall, RFD is influenced by a complex interplay of neural and muscular factors, and accurate measurement requires careful consideration of methodological approaches. Understanding these factors is essential for designing effective training programs to improve explosive strength in athletes, elderly individuals, and patients.