What type of muscle contraction occurs when the muscle exerts force while shortening?

The type of muscle contraction that occurs when a muscle exerts force while shortening is termed concentric contraction. During concentric contraction, the muscle fibers actively shorten as they generate tension, leading to movement. This typically happens when lifting weights or performing activities such as bicep curls, where the muscle becomes shorter as it pulls the weight upward.

In contrast, isometric contractions occur when muscle tension is produced without any change in muscle length; the muscle remains the same length while contracting. Eccentric contractions involve the muscle lengthening under tension, often as a controlled release of weight or resistance. Static, like isometric, describes a situation where there is no movement and the muscle does not shorten but maintains its length while exerting force. Understanding these distinctions helps in applying concepts to different physical activities and rehabilitation scenarios in kinesiotherapy.