MY MAJOR MUSCLE GROUPS

Muscles are a “tissue composed of cells or fibers, the contraction of which produces movement in the body. An organ, composed of muscle tissue, that contracts to produce a particular movement” (https://dictionary.reference.com/browse/muscle?s=t).

So what makes our bodies move? Muscles of course!

Think about your body and the types of movement you make.

Have students brainstorm and write down their list on the white board. Here are some ideas.

  • Kicking a soccer ball
  • Throwing a softball
  • Walking to the bus stop
  • Eating a sandwich
  • Twirling a hula hoop
  • Brushing your teeth
  • Braiding your hair
  • Climbing the stairs

Using a diagram of the musculoskeletal system from a Human Body Reference book or from the web, show students the major muscle groups.

Biceps/Triceps, Shoulders, Back/Core, Abdominal, Gluteal, Quadriceps, Hamstrings

In general, children use many of their muscles during playtime. Climbing trees or playground ladders, skipping, playing sports, swimming, walking, and gymnastics are just some examples of ways children use their major muscle groups.

How do we isolate these major muscle groups so we understand where they are on our bodies?

Check out these Strengthening videos. By using classroom supplies as weights, you will be able to feel which muscles are being used on your own body!

**These activities are meant to help educate students about their major muscle groups and are not intended to be used to start as a weight training program.

**A child should check with their doctor before starting any strength training exercise program.