Monday 13 May 2013

Muscle function

MUSCLE FUNCTION

 

Muscles are the organs responsible for movement. Attached to two or more bones and extending across one or more joints, skeletal muscles are generally considered to be under conscious control. This is not strictly correct. Although a movement begins with a conscious decision, it sets off a chain of reflex reactions in associated structures that are not under conscious control.

The interlinking of parts of the anatomy mean that tension in one area is spread over a wide area (eg a tense back prevents the hindleg being able to be drawn forward fully as the long back muscle is connected to the gluteal muscle via a large sheet of connective tissue).

 

Different muscles of the body have differing amounts of tendon inlaid.

Some contain muscle fibres composed entirely of muscle cells arranged in parallel (fleshy fibres) and have little or no tendon component. These muscles are designed to contract strongly and then relax, through being stretched by antagonistic (or opposing) muscles. These muscles produce strong thrust and are primarily for forward movement. These muscles tire very quickly and build up with toxins when they are required to remain contracted (ie when they are tense). They then swell up due to poor drainage of lymphatic fluid and cannot receive sufficient nutrients. The more rhythmic the cycle of contraction and relaxation, the better the blood flow, removing waste products and reducing tiredness.

 

Other muscles have varying amounts of tendon fibre inlaid. Tendon fibres can withstand a high level of strain and muscles with a large amount of tendon inlaid can act as elastic supporting bands for long periods of time. They do the work that requires sustained even tension or stretching. They make it possible for the horse to hold itself in a raised posture and to carry the rider and balance with the riders weight.

 

One important point to realise is that a muscle cannot increase in strength (that is grow in size) if it is worked under a state of cramped tension. This tension leads to swelling and the muscle being inadequately supplied with nutrients. Instead of increasing in size, it will atrophy (become smaller).

On the other hand, muscles that work in a relaxed and rhythmic way have a good blood supply therefore receive sufficient nutrients and are able to grow larger as a result of correct work.

 

So, the first requirement for successful training in relaxation. 

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