Final answer:
Short oblique muscle fibers are geared towards strength, while longer fusiform muscles provide a greater range of motion. The arrangement of fascicles, such as in pennate or fusiform muscles, determines the muscle's extensibility and function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Short oblique muscle fibres are often arranged for strength, while longer fusiform muscles allow a greater range of motion at a joint. The fascicle is a bundle of muscle fibers within a skeletal muscle. Muscle fibers like the fast glycolytic (FG) primarily use anaerobic glycolysis and are key in powerful, quick movements but not for extended periods.
As an example, the biceps brachii muscle, when contracted, showcases a large, middle section known as the belly, which is characteristic of muscles with fusiform fascicle arrangement. This fusiform shape allows for a greater range of motion. In contrast, muscles arranged with short oblique fibers, such as those with a pennate arrangement, are stronger and designed for endurance but have a more limited range of motion.
Overall, the specific fascicle arrangement in muscles highlights the extensibility and potential for range of motion or strength. The vast majority of skeletal muscles are organized parallel to the long axis, which plays a significant role in muscle contraction and the function of the muscle during various physical activities and exercises.