Final answer:
The term used to describe the combined muscle contraction of the core muscles is Bracing. It involves the global core muscles working together to stabilize the spine and pelvis, enhancing performance and preventing injury.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term used to describe combined muscle contraction (co-contraction) of the global muscles of the core is Bracing. This term reflects the action when several muscle groups, including the global muscles of the core, work in synchronization to stabilize the spine and pelvis during movement, increasing the stability of the core and ensuring safe and efficient movement patterns. This is essential for enhancing performance and preventing injury. For example, during a heavy lift like a deadlift or squat, bracing the core muscles will help maintain a neutral spine position, thereby improving the lift's efficacy and safety.
Supporting muscles, such as the synergists, help the main muscles involved in a movement, the agonists, by stabilizing joints or creating additional force. Fixators are a specific type of synergist that hold a joint stable, allowing the agonist to work more efficiently. This is critical in compound movements and in exercises where core engagement is vital for proper execution and injury prevention.