Types of skeletal muscle contraction

Question 1

What are the three types of contraction?

Answer 1

Concentric, Eccentric, Isometric

Question 2

What are the characteristics of a Concentric contraction?

Answer 2

The muscle contracts and shortens
Known as the positive phase of muscle contraction

Question 3

Name examples of the concentric contraction?

Answer 3

Biceps on the upward phase of a bicep curl

Triceps on the upward phase of a press-up

Question 4

What are the characteristics of an Eccentric contraction?

Answer 4

When a muscle returns to its normal length after contraction.

The muscle contracts and lengthens

Known as the negative phase of muscle contraction

Can be a significant factor in the stimulus that promotes gains in muscle strength and size.

Question 5

Name examples of eccentric contractions.

Answer 5

Biceps on the downward phase of a bicep curl

Triceps on the downward phase of a press-up

Question 6

What are the characteristics of a Isometric contraction?

Answer 6

The length of a muscle does not change and the joint angle does not alter.

Muscle is actively engaged in holding a static position.

The muscle contracts but there is little or no movement

The muscle doesn’t shorten or lengthen

Question 7

Name examples of an isometric contraction.

Answer 7

Abdominals when holding a plank position

Deltoids when performing a handstand