B. O. U. N. C. E

Elasticity plays a crucial role in force production, particularly in muscle contraction and movement. When a muscle is stretched, the elastic components within the muscle store potential energy, which can be released to generate force when the muscle contracts. This phenomenon is referred to as the stretch-shortening cycle.

The stretch-shortening cycle involves three phases: eccentric, amortisation, and concentric. In the eccentric phase, the muscle lengthens as an external force stretches it. This stretch causes the elastic structures within the muscle, such as the tendons and connective tissues, to store potential energy. In the amortisation phase, there is a rapid isometric contraction, where the muscle neither shortens nor lengthens, but prepares for force production. Finally, in the concentric phase, the stored potential energy is released, resulting in the shortening of the muscle and the generation of force.

A study by Komi et al. (1987) explored the effects of the stretch-shortening cycle on force production. Their findings suggested that the utilisation of the elastic components during muscle contraction significantly increases force output. Furthermore, the study indicated that the storage and release of elastic energy contribute to the efficiency of human locomotion.

Another study by Kubo et al. (2002) investigated the role of tendon elasticity in muscle force production. The researchers found that tendons act as springs and store elastic energy during muscle stretch, which is then returned and added to the muscle's force during contraction. They concluded that the elastic properties of tendons significantly contribute to the force production of muscles.

In summary, elasticity plays a critical role in force production by allowing muscles to store and release potential energy during the stretch-shortening cycle. Various studies have emphasised the importance of elastic components, such as tendons and connective tissues, in maximising force output and improving the efficiency of human movement.

References:

1. Komi, P. V., Nicol, C., & Marconnet, P. (1987). Metabolic aspects of the stretch-shortening cycle in human muscle. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 19(5 Suppl), S146–S147.

2. Kubo, K., Kawakami, Y., & Fukunaga, T. (2002). Influence of elastic properties of tendon structures on jump performance in humans. Journal of Applied Physiology, 92(2), 595–603.