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Understanding Muscular Contractions in PE

Jan 26, 2025

GCSE PE: Types of Muscular Contractions

Introduction

  • Presenter: Mr. Matthews
  • Topic: Types of muscular contractions
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Types of Muscular Contractions

1. Isotonic Contractions

  • Definition: Muscles change length to produce movement.
  • Types:
    • Concentric Contraction
      • Muscle shortens under tension.
      • Example: Upwards phase of a bicep curl.
      • Another Example: Upwards phase of a push-up (triceps shorten under tension).
    • Eccentric Contraction
      • Muscle lengthens under tension.
      • Example: Downwards phase of a bicep curl.
      • Another Example: Downwards phase of a push-up (triceps lengthen under tension).
  • Summary: Isotonic contractions involve visible movement as muscles either shorten (concentric) or lengthen (eccentric) under tension.

2. Isometric Contractions

  • Definition: Muscles do not change length while under tension; no movement occurs.
  • Examples:
    • A handstand, where the arms support body weight without movement.
    • A plank position, where the performer holds a stationary stance.

Conclusion

  • The video covered isotonic contractions (concentric and eccentric) and isometric contractions.
  • Encouragement to like the video and comment with questions.

  • Note: This summary encapsulates the key points discussed in Mr. Matthews' video on muscular contractions. Use this as a reference to understand the basic concepts of muscle movements in physical exercises.