Joes Anatomy - Skeletal Muscles

Question 1

What are the six main functions of skeletal muscles?

Answer 1

1. Movement
2. Maintain posture and balance
3. Support and protect soft tissue
4. Guards entrances and exits
5. Maintain body heat
6. Joint stability

Question 2

Name the three types of muscle contractions

Answer 2

Isometric
Concentric
Eccentric

Question 3

Define an isometric contraction

Answer 3

The muscle stays the same length during contraction or when the activity has been carried out.

E.g. holding a dumbbell still out wide

Question 4

Define a concentric contraction

Answer 4

This is where the muscle shortens when performing an action.

E.g. lifting a dumbbell in a bicep curl.

Question 5

Define an eccentric contraction

Answer 5

This is where the muscle lengthens under tension. The ends of the muscle move further away during an action.

E.g. lowering a dumbbell after a bicep curl.

Question 6

What are the three types of a skeletal muscle?

Answer 6

Cardiac
Smooth
Skeletal

Question 7

Muscles work in pairs. When one muscle contracts against a bone the other relaxes and extends. What are these pairs referred to as?

Answer 7

Agonist
And
Antagonist

The purpose of the agonist/antagonist is to provide control of movement in opposite directions about a joint.

Question 8

What are the five features of the anatomical position?

Answer 8

Facing forward
Standing upright
Feet together
Hands by side
Palms facing forward

Question 9

What is the prime mover?

Answer 9

The prime mover is the muscle that initiates the movement.