Contraction and Stretching

Question 1

Concentric muscle contraction

Answer 1

Muscles are shortening as it generates force bringing the muscle’s attachment points closer together; ie: lifting weights, standing up from a seated position,

Question 2

Eccentric muscle contraction

Answer 2

Muscles are increasing in length while it is still contracting and generating force, like lowering weights. Muscle is resisting the lengthening movement, ie: going downstairs, lowering into a squat, lowering phase of a bicep curl.

Question 3

Isometric muscle contraction

Answer 3

Muscle generates force but does not change its length and joint does not move. Think of tightening a muscle w/o causing any visible movement like holding a plank pose. Good for healing torn muscles as it it offering resistance w/o lengthening or shortening muscle even though it is contracting.

Question 4

Isotonic muscle contraction

Answer 4

Muscle length changes while maintaining a constant force. “Equal tension” Shortening muscle up and down such as concentric and eccentric movements.

Question 5

Muscle sprain

Answer 5

An injury that occurs when the ligaments, which are tough bands of tissue that connect bones, are stretched or torn usually due to a sudden or forceful movement that exceeds the normal range of motion of a joint.
Limited ROM, swelling

Question 6

Pulled muscle or muscle strain

Answer 6

A muscle or tendon (the tissue connecting muscle to bone) is overstretched or torn. This can happen due to sudden movements, overexertion, or repetitive actions. Causes tears in the muscle. Can develop scar tissue. Should continue movement in rehab to reduce/soften scar tissue

Question 7

Muscle restriction

Answer 7

Also known as muscle stiffness, refers to a state where muscles feel tight, limited in their range of motion, and potentially painful. This can be caused by various factors, including injury, overexertion, posture, and other underlying conditions.

Question 8

Compression vs tension

Answer 8

In yoga, tension is muscles stretching and compression is bones meeting. Understanding is crucial for safe and effective practice. Reaching compression in a pose means you’ve hit your bone limit, and further movement can be harmful.