Prestressed concrete is concrete that is placed under compression using tensioned steel strands, cables, or bars. This is done through either pre-tensioning or post-tensioning. In pre-tensioning, the steel components are tensioned before the concrete is poured, while in post-tensioning, the steel components are tensioned after the concrete has hardened. Prestressed concrete provides benefits over reinforced concrete like lower construction costs, thinner structural elements, and longer spans between supports.