Question

Kinesiology Biomechanics Question. Please answer the question, then give an explanation in detail as to why that is the answer (step by step).

Please answer all parts of the question. Thanks in advanced.

Answer 1

In the Downward facing dog pose, when we consider the knees, the muscle that experience a stretch is called Gastrocnemius i.e. the muscle crossing at the back of the knee.

From a to b: We notice that the knee muscles here are stretched here, causing an extension of gastrocnemius muscle. This increases the length of the muscle under load. Hence the movement in this case is eccentric.

From b to c: Here, the ankles are made to touch down on the floor, in turn creating a greater stretch on the calf muscles as well as on the gastrocnemius muscle. So this leads to further extension, leading to an eccentric movement.

Now, when we consider the ankles, the muscle that experiences the tension is called Soleus i.e. the muscles crossing the ankles with the gastrocnemius.

From a to b: We notice that the ankle muscles here aren't primarily stretched as the major focus is on the knees, causing it to be in a stabilizing state. Because of this there is hardly any shortening or lengthening of the muscle. Hence the movement in this case is isometric.

From b to c: As mentioned above, the ankles are made to touch down on the floor, which in turn now creates a stretch on the soleus muscle. This leads to the extension of soleus, leading to its eccentric movement.