This review discusses the physiological and methodological considerations for evaluating rate of force development (RFD) during rapid contractions. RFD is a key indicator of explosive strength and is influenced by both neural and muscular factors. Neural factors, such as motor unit (MU) recruitment and discharge rate, play a crucial role in the early phase of rapid contractions, while muscular factors like muscle fiber type composition, size, and architecture also contribute. The review highlights that RFD is primarily determined by the capacity to produce maximal voluntary activation in the first 50-75 ms of a contraction, often through increased MU discharge rates. Training, particularly explosive-type and heavy-resistance strength training, can improve RFD by enhancing rapid muscle activation. However, evaluating RFD in a valid and reliable manner remains challenging. The review provides evidence-based recommendations for quantifying RFD in both laboratory and clinical settings, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms to design effective interventions.This review discusses the physiological and methodological considerations for evaluating rate of force development (RFD) during rapid contractions. RFD is a key indicator of explosive strength and is influenced by both neural and muscular factors. Neural factors, such as motor unit (MU) recruitment and discharge rate, play a crucial role in the early phase of rapid contractions, while muscular factors like muscle fiber type composition, size, and architecture also contribute. The review highlights that RFD is primarily determined by the capacity to produce maximal voluntary activation in the first 50-75 ms of a contraction, often through increased MU discharge rates. Training, particularly explosive-type and heavy-resistance strength training, can improve RFD by enhancing rapid muscle activation. However, evaluating RFD in a valid and reliable manner remains challenging. The review provides evidence-based recommendations for quantifying RFD in both laboratory and clinical settings, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms to design effective interventions.