How do the arm muscles work to flex the elbow?

To flex the elbow, there are two main muscles involved - the biceps brachii and the triceps brachii. These two muscles work together in an antagonistic pair in order to complete the movement. Antagonistic pairs are when two muscles work against each other to complete two opposite movements. In this case, when the elbow is flexed, the biceps brachii contract (shorten) and the triceps brachii relax (lengthen). When extending the elbow, the opposite happens. Other muscles called synergists help stabilise the movements that an antagonistic pair perform.

EH
Answered by Emily H. Physical Education tutor

16506 Views

See similar Physical Education A Level tutors

Related Physical Education A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the mechanisms of breathing which causes inspiration at rest


What is ATP? Explain the process of ATP hydrolysis and production of energy


Identify four different types of attribution proposed by Weiner’s attribution model and give a practical example for each type identified.


Describe the mechanics of breathing for inspiration during exercise. (5)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning