Understanding Agonist and Antagonist Muscles

What is the primary role of an agonist muscle during movement?

(concentrically contracting/shortening)

• To stabilize the joint

• To produce the main force for movement

• To oppose the movement

• To assist the antagonist

Which of the following best describes an antagonist muscle?

(eccentrically contracting/lengthening)

• A muscle that assists the agonist

• A muscle that opposes the action of the agonist

• A muscle that stabilizes the joint

• A muscle that contracts to produce movement

Which muscle acts as the agonist during a bicep curl?

• Triceps brachii

• Biceps brachii

• Deltoid

• Latissimus dorsi

During a bicep curl, which muscle serves as the antagonist?

• Biceps brachii

• Triceps brachii

• Pectoralis major

• Rectus abdominis

Identify the agonist muscle in a leg extension exercise.

• Hamstrings

• Quadriceps

• Gastrocnemius

• Soleus

In a leg extension exercise, which muscle acts as the antagonist?

• Quadriceps

• Hamstrings

• Gluteus maximus

• Tibialis anterior

During the down phase of a squat, which muscle group acts as the agonist?

• Hamstrings

• Quadriceps

• Calves

• Abdominals

During the up phase squat, which muscle group serves as the agonist?

• Quadriceps

• Hamstrings

• Gluteus maximus

• Erector spinae

What is the role of the antagonist muscle during movement?

• To produce the main force for movement

• To stabilize the joint

• To oppose the action of the agonist

• To assist the agonist

During the up phase of a bench press, which muscle acts as the agonist?

• Latissimus dorsi

• Pectoralis major

• Biceps brachii

• Trapezius