Describe the Function of The Prime Movers in Muscle

When you flex or contract a muscle, you are moving the prime mover muscle.

Within the muscular system are a group of muscles which perform the central task of causing motion. These muscles are called prime movers.

Function

The prime mover causes the movement of an appendage or group of muscles. Nerve signals are sent to this muscle, causing the muscle to contract in a way that causes a movement.

Terms

As the prime mover contracts, another muscle relaxes. This counter muscle is known as the antagonist muscle. The prime mover is often referred to as the "agonist" muscle. All muscles that work with the prime mover but are not the center of a nerve signal are called "synergist" muscles.

Considerations

Any skeletal muscle may be a prime mover. One moment a muscle contracts, becoming the agonist against a counter antagonist muscle. The next moment the original agonist muscle relaxes, causing the original antagonist muscle to contract. In this example the first agonist muscle has become an antagonist muscle, and vice versa for the original antagonist muscle.

References

• Ivy Rose Holistic: Muscle Terminology
• Think Muscle: Quality Strength for Human Athletic Performance: A Guide to Speed Strength Training