Types of muscle contraction Flashcards
Why do muscles contract?
In order to produce a vast range of movement of which it is capable, the body’s muscles shorten, lengthen or remain the same length whilst contracting.
What are isotonic contractions?
They refer to those instances when the muscle is moving while contracting. This can be further divided into concentric and eccentric muscle actions.
What are concentric contractions?
Contractions that involve the muscle shortening while contracting as happens in the biceps upward phase of a bicep curl or in the tricep in the upward phase of a press up.
What is an eccentric contraction?
Contractions that involve the muscle lengthening whilst contracting (muscles do not always relax while lengthening). This is seen in the bicep curl during the downward phase or in the tricep in the downward phase. The eccentric phase is due to the bicep acting on the force of gravity. Gravity acts on the mass of the weight and forearm causing extension of the elbow.
What is an isotonic contraction?
Contraction of muscles without shortening or lengthening, but the muscle remains the same length while contracting. Static contractions occur during a handstand or while holding a weight in a stationary position.
What are isokinetic contractions?
Contractions are also possible where machines govern the resistance and speed at which contractions are made.
