What is an antagonist muscle's relationship to an agonist muscle?

An antagonist muscle is defined by its opposing action relative to an agonist muscle. While the agonist is the muscle primarily responsible for a movement, the antagonist works to provide opposite force or resistance to that movement. This relationship allows for controlled movement and balance within the body. For instance, when the biceps (agonist) contract to flex the elbow, the triceps (antagonist) relax to allow this action to occur; if the triceps were not active in opposing the contraction of the biceps, movement would not be smooth.

This dynamic interaction between agonist and antagonist muscles is crucial for maintaining joint stability and preventing injury, as it sets the stage for coordinated movements. Understanding this relationship is fundamental in both massage therapy and broader biomechanics, as recognizing muscle actions aids in effectively addressing muscle imbalances and enhancing overall physical performance.