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The Muscular System

Concentric, eccentric and isometric contraction

  • 3 things to know
  • A2 2

Overview

Isotonic, concentric, eccentric and isometric contractions, sporting examples, squats, press-ups and biceps curls, eccentric force and muscle soreness, plyometrics and the long jump take-off.

What you need to know

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Key term

What is an isotonic contraction?

Key term

What is a concentric contraction?

Key term

What is an eccentric contraction?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    What is an isotonic contraction?

    Model answer

    An isotonic contraction is one in which a muscle changes length while producing tension, causing movement. Concentric and eccentric contractions are both isotonic.

  2. 2

    What is a concentric contraction?

    Model answer

    A concentric contraction is one in which a muscle shortens under tension. The biceps contracts concentrically in the upward phase of a biceps curl.

  3. 3

    What is an eccentric contraction?

    Model answer

    An eccentric contraction is one in which a muscle lengthens under tension. The muscle acts as a brake to control a movement.

  4. 4

    Give a sporting example of an eccentric contraction.

    Model answer

    The quadriceps contract eccentrically as a basketball player lands from a jump. The eccentric contraction controls knee flexion and absorbs the impact.

  5. 5

    What is an isometric contraction?

    Model answer

    An isometric contraction is one in which a muscle produces tension without changing length. The joint angle stays the same.

  6. 6

    Give two sporting examples of isometric contraction.

    Model answer

    A gymnast holding a handstand uses isometric contractions. A climber gripping a hold uses isometric contractions in the forearm muscles.

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