In exercise terminology, what is the agonist?

The term "agonist" refers to the muscle that is primarily responsible for carrying out a specific movement during an exercise. This muscle contracts to produce the desired motion, making it the main player in the action being performed. For example, during a bicep curl, the bicep muscle acts as the agonist since it is the muscle that actively shortens and generates force to lift the weight.

Understanding the role of the agonist is crucial for designing effective exercise programs and ensuring proper form during workouts. This knowledge helps in identifying which muscles need to be strengthened for optimal performance and injury prevention, as the agonist plays a key role in movement mechanics.