1.6 Types of muscular contractions

Question 1

Concentric contraction

Answer 1

this when the muscle length shortens as the force is being produced

Eg. Sit ups, in the UP phase

Question 2

Eccentric contraction

Answer 2

this when the muscle length lengthens as the force is being produced

Eg. squats, in the DOWN phase

Question 3

Isometric contraction

Answer 3

is when a force is developed but there is no change in the muscle length

Eg. holding a plank

Question 4

Muscle action

Answer 4

Creates movement by pulling on attached bones

Attached to rigid, moveable bone at one end

Attached across joint to more flexible bone

Question 5

Muscle origin

Answer 5

Points of attachment to stationary bone (origin or fixed end)

Often closer to the bodys main mass

Widespread origin anchors the muscle

Question 6

Muscle insertion

Answer 6

Muscle more moveable point of attachment (insertion)

Located away from the body mass

Attaches to bone near muscle moving joint, via strong non elastic tendon

Question 7

Muscle contraction

Answer 7

Draws together origin and insertion, shortening muscle

Bones attached to muscles produce movement in specific direction

This movement is called muscles action

Question 8

Agonist

Answer 8

The muscle that causes the major action (prime mover)

Question 9

Antagonist

Answer 9

The muscle that relaxes and lengthens to allow movement to occur

Question 10

Synergist

Answer 10

The muscle that assists the agonist to produce the required movement

Question 11

Stabiliser

Answer 11

The group of muscles that ensures that the joint remains stable during movement

Question 12

Reciprocal inhibition

Answer 12

The process of one muscle contracting (agonist) while the other muscle relaxes (antagonist) to create movement