Mighty Muscles

1.Think of three kinds of athletes - sprinters, weightlifters and gymnasts.

They all use muscles in different ways. How are they different? What do they need their muscles to do? Can you think of other sports in which athletes use their muscles in similar ways to these three kinds of athletes?When do you use your muscles in the way they use theirs? Answer: Sprinters use their calf muscles and their hamstring to run. Weightlifters use their triceps and biceps to lift things. Gymnasts use  all of their muscles in their body.

2.Now think of an activity that you do,for example,making a ham and lettuce sandwich.Mime all of the actions [taking the ham and lettuce out of the fridge picking up the knife, and so on]While your partner writes down the body parts and the muscles involved. How many muscles does it take to do this simple task.It takes 6 muscles to make a sandwhich.

3.Together,read through the card again.Take turns to explain how pairs of muscles work. How many pairs of muscles can you find in your body - for example, the ones you use to open and close your mouth. your  triceps and biceps help you lift things up and bend your arm.