Synergistic muscles

[hacheemaster]

Definition of synergistic muscles: "groups of muscles that contract together to accomplish the same body movement"

Source: http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/synergistic+muscles

Question: Are synergistic and antagonistic muscles the same? For instance, EK mentions that the muscles in the biceps and triceps are antagonistic; one contracts while the other relaxes. Would this also be an example of synergistic muscles? These two muscles are working together but they both are not contracting. Could someone please clarify the difference between synergistic and antagonistic?

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[tjquinn]

The biceps and triceps are an example of antagonistic muscles (one flexes and the other extends). An example of synergistic muscles would be the clavotrapezius, acromiotrapezius, and spinotrapezius. They work in coordination to elevate the scapula (among other things in the cat).

If it helps, break down the word. Synergistic = Syn + erg + istic where syn is together erg is work and istic is pertaining to (or characterized by). I hope this helps.

Tjquinn

 

[Doodl3s]

A good way to think of synergestic is if you work out. For example. When you stand up (or do the squat workout) you feel your gluteus (butt) muscles tighten while your quadriceps tighten (your front thigh). Those two contracting pulls your butt in and your knees in causing you to stand. Another good one is bench pressing (or when you push someone away from you) Your triceps contract to bring your elbows in, and you chest muscles keep your upper arm angled forward, creating the action of pushing forward. So synergetic really depends on the action your doing. On the other hand antagonistic doesnt matter. Your bicep is always opposite your tricep... your Abs vs. your lower back; your quads vs. your hamstring...

 

[hacheemaster]

thanks for the clear explanations.