Training motor control, increasing strength and fitness

Question 1

Biological and mechanical factors that affect the strength of muscle

Answer 1

Structural: cross-sectional area of muscle, density of fibres.

Biomechanical: efficient mechanical leverage across joints, effects of dynamic intersegmental interactions.

Functional: number, type and frequency of motor units recruited during a contraction, and efficient cooperation between muscles in a synergy.

Question 2

Strengthening exercises effects

Answer 2

↑ Muscle strength: increased ability to generate and time muscle forces appropriately for the task.

↑ Skill in performance of the task: increased coordination of muscle activations.

↑ Extensibility of muscle for the task: decreased resistance to mvmt.