Antagonistic muscle pairs Flashcards
1
Q
How do muscles work together?
A
Muscles work together as some pull (agonist) while others control (antagonist). Some assist in the pulling (synergist) and others hold the body in position (fixator).
2
Q
What are agonist and antagonist muscle pairs?
A
The muscle that shortens and contracts to cause movement is the agonist and the muscle that relaxes in opposition is the antagonist. If the antagonist did not relax then movement will not occur.
3
Q
What are synergist and fixators?
A
The muscles that assist in movement are known as synergists, these muscles help refine the movement so the muscles are in the best position. Certain parts of a joint must be stabilised for a movement to occur, these are called the fixators.
4
Q
A
