Prime mover

Definition

A prime mover, in the context of the muscular system, is the main muscle responsible for producing a specific movement during an action. It works by contracting, while its antagonist muscle relaxes, to achieve motion at a joint.

Related terms

Antagonist Muscle: The muscle that opposes the action of the prime mover and must relax to allow the prime mover to contract effectively.

Synergist Muscle: A muscle that assists the prime mover in performing its action, often by stabilizing joints or adding extra force.

Muscle Contraction:

The process whereby muscle fibers generate tension through a biochemical reaction, leading to movement or maintenance of posture