ExpertEasy2 marksStructured
The Human Body and Movement in Physical Activity and SportMuscular SystemMuscle ContractionsIsometric
AQA GCSE · Question 14.3 · The Human Body and Movement in Physical Activity and Sport
Define 'isometric contraction'.
Use a sporting example in your answer.
Define 'isometric contraction'.
Use a sporting example in your answer.
How to approach this question
1. Provide the definition of an isometric contraction, focusing on the lack of change in muscle length and absence of movement. 2. Think of a sporting action where a position is held statically against a resistance (like gravity) and describe it.
Full Answer
**Definition:** An isometric contraction occurs when a muscle generates tension but does not shorten or lengthen, and as a result, there is no movement at the joint. The muscle is working to hold a static position against an opposing force.
**Sporting Example:** A clear example is holding a plank. The abdominal and core muscles are contracting isometrically to keep the body in a straight line against the force of gravity. Other examples include a rugby scrum where players are pushing against each other with no movement, or a gymnast holding a handstand.
Common mistakes
Confusing isometric with isotonic (where movement occurs). Providing an example that involves movement.
Practice the full AQA GCSE Physical Education Paper 1
34 questions · hints · full answers · grading
More questions from this exam
Q01Which one of these components of fitness is the most important when dribbling a ball around a def...EasyQ02Which one of these is the correct pathway of the blood in the cardiac cycle as it returns to the ...EasyQ03Which one of these bones is located at the shoulder joint?EasyQ04A sprinter includes speed work in their training.
Which one of these principles of training are ...EasyQ05Table 1 shows the ratings of a GCSE PE class for the Vertical Jump Test.
**Table 1**
| Rating ...Easy