Muscular System Whats the Purpose The Muscular systems

Muscular System

What’s the Purpose? • The Muscular system’s main function is to assist our body with movement. • Muscles pull the bones to produce movement.

Types of Muscles There are 3 types of muscles: • Skeletal Muscles are voluntary muscles, meaning you have to consciously move them. • Cardiac muscles and smooth muscles are involuntary muscles, meaning that you do not have to think about using them.

Skeletal Muscles • Skeletal muscles are voluntary • Give your body power and strength • Attached to your bones with tendons and stretch across your joints • Move your body parts by contracting (tensing up) and relaxing (letting go) • Work in pairs called flexors and extensors

Skeletal Muscles • Help you do things like walking, running, swimming, smiling, frowning, tying your shoes, etc.

Cardiac Muscles Cardiac muscles are involuntary muscles, you don’t have to think about using them. • Your cardiac muscle keeps your heart beating

How do You Move? • To allow you to move, the brain sends messages through the spinal cord to the nerves in your muscles. • The nerves contract the muscle you want to move then sends messages back to the brain.

How to Build and Keep Strong Muscles • Participate in physical activities including sports and other exercise • Stay active throughout the day • Get enough sleep • Eat a nutritious and balanced diet

Smooth Muscles Smooth muscles are also involuntary, you don’t have to think about using them. • Your stomach, intestines, and bladder all use involuntary muscles. They allow you to digest food and eliminate waste.