National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Group Fitness Instructor Practice Exam

What role do actin and myosin play in the body?

1. They transport oxygen in the blood

2. They produce muscular contractions

3. They support joint stability

4. They store energy for future use

The correct answer is: They produce muscular contractions

Actin and myosin are essential proteins found in muscle tissue and are primarily responsible for the contraction of muscles. During muscle contraction, these proteins interact through a process called the sliding filament theory. When a muscle receives a signal to contract, myosin heads attach to binding sites on actin filaments, pulling them closer together. This action shortens the muscle fiber, leading to contraction. The importance of actin and myosin extends beyond just muscle fibers; they play vital roles in various types of muscle contractions, including voluntary movements, involuntary actions, and even in the contractions of the heart muscle. Understanding their function is crucial for anyone involved in fitness or exercise science, as it relates directly to how muscles perform during physical activity. Considering this mechanism, it is clear that the role of actin and myosin in producing muscular contractions is fundamental to movement and overall physical performance. While other options touch on relevant physiological concepts, they do not accurately describe the primary function of these specific proteins.