Question

Based on what you have learned in this unit, what type of muscle contraction do you think you experience most frequently throughout your day? How about when you work out? Define the type of muscle contraction that you experience most throughout your day and the one that you experience most when working out. Give examples to support your answer.

Answer 1

Throughout a normal day I will have isometric contractions, but while I’m working out I will have isotonic contractions. An isometric contraction is when the muscle contracts, generating energy without changing the length of the muscle. While an isotonic contraction is when the muscle contracts and generates force while changing the length.

Answer 2

There are four types of muscle contractions:
Isometric: The muscle contracts, generating energy without changing the length of the muscle.
Isotonic: The muscle contracts and generates force while changing the length.
There are two types if isotonic contractions; 1. Eccentric: the muscle lengthens. 2. Concentric: the muscle shortens.
We mainly use isotonic contractions when working out or weight lifting and isometric most of the day which include using forearm muscles, calves, etc...