Final answer:
The SSC or Stretch-Shortening Cycle is effective in a soccer kick as it utilizes the muscles' elastic properties to enhance power, while biking involves continuous concentric contractions with minimal elastic energy storage, making SSC less significant.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term SSC refers to the Stretch-Shortening Cycle, which is a concept in biomechanics that is applied during activities involving spring-like movements. The SSC is an essential mechanism in activities such as a soccer kick because it capitalizes on the natural elastic properties of muscles and tendons. During a soccer kick, the leg muscles are first stretched (eccentric phase), then rapidly shortened (concentric phase), providing a burst of energy that contributes to a more powerful kick.
During biking, on the other hand, the SSC is less utilized because biking primarily involves a continuous concentric contraction of the muscles to pedal the bike. The element of elastic energy storage and release is minimal, as the motion is cyclical and does not have the pronounced stretch phase as seen in kicking a soccer ball.