Strength

Question 1

Definition of strength

Answer 1

The ability of the body to apply a force

Question 2

Definition of static strength (also known as isometric strength)

Answer 2

When a force is applied against resistance without any movement occurring/ no change in muscle length

Question 3

Definition of dynamic strength

Answer 3

The amount of work performed per unit of time. Characterised by movement

Question 4

Definition of maximal strength

Answer 4

The ability to produce a maximal amount of force in a singular muscle contraction

Question 5

Definition of explosive strength

Answer 5

The ability to produce a maximal amount of force in one or a series of rapid muscular contractions

Question 6

Definition of strength endurance

Answer 6

The ability to sustain repeated muscular contractions over a period of time withstanding fatigue

Question 7

What is a sporting example of static strength?

Answer 7

-Crucifix position on rings
-Plank
-Arabesque on beam
-Handstand on the floor

Question 8

What is a sporting example of dynamic strength?

Answer 8

-Hop, step, jump in triple jump

Question 9

What is a sporting example of maximal strength?

Answer 9

-1 rep max in weight lifting
-Judo single throw
-Push in rugby scrum

Question 10

What is a sporting example of explosive strength?

Answer 10

-Sprinting
-Throwing in athletics

Question 11

What is a sporting example of strength endurance?

Answer 11

-Rowing
-Swimming
-Wresting

Question 12

What are the 4 factors affecting strength?

Answer 12

Cross-sectional area, Fibre type, Gender, Age

Question 13

How does cross-sectional area affect strength?

Answer 13

Effect - The greater the cross-sectional area the greater the strength

Explanation - There is a maximum of 16-30 N of force per cm2 of muscle cross-section

Question 14

How does fibre type affect strength?

Answer 14

Effect - The greater the % of fast glycolytic and fast oxidative glycolytic muscle fibres, the greater the strength over a short period of time

Explanation - Fast-twitch fibres have large motor neurones forming large motor units with rapid, high force contractions

Question 15

How does gender affect strength?

Answer 15

Effect - Males have a greater strength than females

Explanation - Males have a high muscle mass and cross-sectional area due to high levels of testosterone. But gender difference disappears when strength is expressed per unit of cross-sectional area

Question 16

How does age affect strength?

Answer 16

Effect - Peak strength is reached in females at 16-25 years and males at 18-30 years. Strength development peaks at 20-30 years then declines with age

Explanation - Age-related decline in strength is due to a decrease in efficiency of the neuro-muscular system, elasticity and testosterone, leading to a reduction in muscle mass