Explain how the agonist/antagonist relationship facilitates efficient movement in sporting activities. (5 marks)
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- The agonist/antagonist relationship creates smooth, controlled movement in sport. When the agonist muscle contracts to produce movement, the antagonist simultaneously relaxes. This coordination prevents muscles from working against each other, which would waste energy and reduce efficiency.
- During a tennis forehand, the biceps (agonist) contracts to flex the elbow in preparation. Meanwhile, the triceps (antagonist) relaxes to allow this movement. For the follow-through, roles reverse – triceps becomes agonist while biceps becomes antagonist. Reciprocal action between these muscles enables fluid, continuous movement.
- The relationship also allows precise force control. By varying the degree of antagonist relaxation, athletes can modulate movement speed and power. In weightlifting, controlled antagonist action prevents the weight from dropping too quickly during the lowering phase.
- Furthermore, balanced agonist/antagonist development maintains joint stability. Equal strength prevents one muscle group from overpowering another, reducing injury risk. Therefore, this coordinated relationship facilitates both movement efficiency and safety across all sporting activities.
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Sample Answer
- The agonist/antagonist relationship creates smooth, controlled movement in sport. When the agonist muscle contracts to produce movement, the antagonist simultaneously relaxes. This coordination prevents muscles from working against each other, which would waste energy and reduce efficiency.
- During a tennis forehand, the biceps (agonist) contracts to flex the elbow in preparation. Meanwhile, the triceps (antagonist) relaxes to allow this movement. For the follow-through, roles reverse – triceps becomes agonist while biceps becomes antagonist. Reciprocal action between these muscles enables fluid, continuous movement.
- The relationship also allows precise force control. By varying the degree of antagonist relaxation, athletes can modulate movement speed and power. In weightlifting, controlled antagonist action prevents the weight from dropping too quickly during the lowering phase.
- Furthermore, balanced agonist/antagonist development maintains joint stability. Equal strength prevents one muscle group from overpowering another, reducing injury risk. Therefore, this coordinated relationship facilitates both movement efficiency and safety across all sporting activities.