The muscle that relaxes is called what?

Study for the Advanced Subsidiary WJEC Physical Education Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each providing hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Multiple Choice

The muscle that relaxes is called what?

Explanation:
When a movement happens, one muscle contracts to produce the action while the opposite muscle lengthens to allow that action to occur. That opposite, lengthening muscle is the antagonist. For example, in bending the elbow, the biceps contracts as the prime mover, and the triceps relaxes to let the elbow bend (it can also slow the movement if needed by contracting eccentrically to control the motion). The other terms relate to different roles: the agonist is the muscle that contracts to create the movement; a synergist assists the agonist or helps stabilize joints; a stabiliser (fixator) holds a joint steady to enable the movement.

When a movement happens, one muscle contracts to produce the action while the opposite muscle lengthens to allow that action to occur. That opposite, lengthening muscle is the antagonist. For example, in bending the elbow, the biceps contracts as the prime mover, and the triceps relaxes to let the elbow bend (it can also slow the movement if needed by contracting eccentrically to control the motion).

The other terms relate to different roles: the agonist is the muscle that contracts to create the movement; a synergist assists the agonist or helps stabilize joints; a stabiliser (fixator) holds a joint steady to enable the movement.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy