Muscle Pairs in Movement Agonist / Antagonist Relationship

Introduction

• Following are the key muscle pairs involved in various movements.
• In these examples, the agonist / prime mover and antagonist are noted from this source.
• For more information on the agonist and antagonist muscle relationship, see Muscles, Movement and Contraction.
• For definitions of movement terms such as flexion and extension, see Movement Terminology.

Elbow Flexion & Extension

Elbow Flexion

Marjaryasana Variation

Garudasana Arms

Sarvangasana

• Bend arms
• Prime Mover – biceps
• Antagonist – triceps

Elbow Extension

Adho Mukha Svanasana

Utkatasana

Purvottanasana Variation

• Straighten arms
• Prime Mover – triceps
• Antagonist – biceps