Kraftmangel

Kraftmangel is a German term that literally means deficiency of power or lack of strength. It is used in various disciplines to describe an insufficiency of driving force, energy, or capacity relative to a required task. The word combines Kraft (power, force) with Mangel (shortage, deficiency).

In engineering and physics, Kraftmangel describes a deficit between the available drive or torque of a system and the force needed to move a load or achieve a desired acceleration. Causes include mechanical losses such as friction, an inadequate power supply, design limitations, or high resistance. Assessments rely on torque measurements, dynamometer tests, and efficiency analyses; remedies include increasing power, reducing loads, improving transmission, or lowering friction.

In physiology and sports science, Kraftmangel refers to reduced muscular force relative to task demands. It occurs with fatigue, neuromuscular disorders, or disuse and rehabilitation contexts. It is commonly evaluated with grip strength or leg-extension tests and addressed through targeted strength and power training.

In everyday language, Kraftmangel can also be used metaphorically to describe an organization, system, or individual lacking resources or influence to achieve goals. The term is thus mainly applied descriptively in technical or clinical settings and remains less common in colloquial German outside those contexts. See also terms like Leistungsdefizit or Muskelkraft for related concepts.