Motor units are recruited in the order of their size, from smallest (Type I) to largest (Type IIb/x) depending on the FORCE they must produce. For example, when you do light load resistance training a person is recruiting predominantly Type I (slow twitch) motor units. When the load is increased, the Type IIa (fast twitch oxidative and glycolytic fibers) will be recruited with the help of the Type I fibers. When the load becomes even greater, the Type IIb/x will be recruited for this very demanding force need placed on the muscle. At this point the Type IIb/x does the greatest force production with the assistance of the Type IIa and Type I fibers.
Robert Yang, Exercise Physiology Student, Spring 2003
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The Motor Unit: What two different anatomical constituents compose a motor unit? |
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