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Antagonist Co-Activation Reduction

Meaning

Antagonist Co-Activation Reduction describes the physiological and neurological process of decreasing the simultaneous contraction of opposing muscle groups during a specific movement. This reduction in co-activation allows the primary mover muscles, or agonists, to generate force more efficiently and powerfully. Clinically, improving this neurological efficiency is a key objective in strength training and rehabilitation to enhance motor performance and movement fluidity. Reduced antagonist activity decreases energy expenditure and minimizes unnecessary joint stabilization forces.