Physiology: Muscle Fatigue

Students will investigate how isometric exercise results in muscle fatigue

Lab Summary

In this explorations, students use a force sensor to investigate a loss of force as muscle fatigue develops during a sustained isometric contraction. Isometric (“same length”) contractions occur when a muscle is not allowed to shorten; consequently, the continual force increases tension in the muscle.

Students explore the ability to maintain a force of 20 N, with and without looking at the displayed units. They investigate muscle fatigue using both thumbs and calculate the onset of fatigue (observed reduction in applied force) when muscle performance becomes compromised. In addition, students record classroom data to investigate statistical differences between males and females regarding muscle fatigue.

Downloads

• Computer-based lab (PDF, 464 KB) (464 KB, .pdf)

  (student version)

• Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 1.4 MB) (1.33 MB, .pdf)

  (student version)

Method

Use a Force Sensor to investigate a loss of force as muscle fatigue develops during a sustained isometric contraction.

Here's What You Need

U.S. Educator prices shown.

Probeware

PASPORT Force Sensor (PS-2104) - $110

Designed to measure both pulling and pushing forces. Uses range from collisions to tug-of-war. For use with PASPORT Interfaces.

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Xplorer GLX (PS-2002) - $329

The Xplorer GLX is a data collection, graphing, and analysis tool designed for science students and educators.

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Lab Manual

The computer-based activity is included in Explorations in Biology (PS-2807). The Xplorer GLX-based lab is included in Biology with the Xplorer GLX (PS-2820). Both manuals are complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data.

For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware for the activities in the manual. For more, please see:
Computer-based Biology Lab Manual and Bundles
Xplorer GLX-based Biology Lab Manual and Bundles