TYPES OF MUSCLE CONTRACTIONS | ||
TYPE OF CONTRACTION | DEFINITION / CHARACTERISTICS | EXAMPLE |
Isokinetic | When the velocity of the muscle contraction remains constant while muscle length changes | Riding a stationary bike |
Concentric (isotonic) | When a muscle is activated and required to lift a load which is less than the maximum tension it can generate, resulting in muscle shortening | Raising a dumbbell with a bicep curl |
Eccentric (isotonic) | When the external force on a muscle is greater than the maximal force it can generate, resulting in muscle lengthening | Walking down stairs |
Isometric | When a muscle is activated at a constant length | Holding a shopping bag |
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