Functions of muscles
The muscular system is made up of muscle tissue and is responsible for functions such as maintenance of posture, locomotion and control of various circulatory systems. This includes the beating of the heart and the movement of food through the digestive system. The muscular system is closely associated with the skeletal system in facilitating movement. Both voluntary and involuntary muscular system functions are controlled by the nervous system (see 3D interactive image).
•Movement
•Balance •Posture •Protection via reflex actions •Blood circulation •Breathing •Control body temperature |
In this video resource go to Chapter 4 - Muscular System
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Types of muscle tissue
Skeletal (Voluntary Muscle): Attached mainly to bones and moves the skeleton. Is a voluntary muscle because you have control over its contraction and relaxation. Example: Bicep & Triceps Muscles
Cardiac (Involuntary Muscle): Makes up the bulk of your heart muscle and is also striped in appearance. Is an involuntary muscle because you have no control over its contraction. Example: Heart Muscles Smooth (Involuntary Muscle): Located in the walls of hollow internal structures. Is responsible for the functions of many of your internal organs. Contraction is smooth and rhythmical. Example: Small/Large intestines, Stomach |
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Types of Skeletal Muscle Fibres
Slow twitch fibers: a.k.a. Type 1, red fibres or tonic fibres
Fast twitch fibers: a.k.a. Type 2, white fibres or phasic fibres
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Skeletal Muscle Anatomy - Anterior / Posterior view
Muscular System - Basic contribution to efficient movement
Muscles are arranged in pairs to move in one direction and the other one can move it back, such as the triceps and biceps. When one is contracting the other is relaxing. Agonist – the muscle that is causing the movement Antagonist – the muscle that relaxes to allow the movement to occur |
Bicep curl:
Agonist - Bicep Antagonist - Tricep Tricep Extension: Agonist - Tricep Antagonist - Bicep |