Google Answers Logo
View Question
 
Q: Strength of biceps and triceps muscles ( No Answer,   1 Comment )
Question  
Subject: Strength of biceps and triceps muscles
Category: Health > Fitness and Nutrition
Asked by: ldean5-ga
List Price: $2.00
Posted: 16 Feb 2005 12:19 PST
Expires: 18 Mar 2005 12:19 PST
Question ID: 475592
Hello there, 
My question: which muscle is stronger - the biceps or the triceps? 
I specifically want to know which muscle is stronger in terms of being
able to work against moving a heavier load.
I was taught that anti-gravity muscles (muscles that work against
gravity such as the flexor action brought about the contraction of the
biceps muscle) are stronger. Whereas muscles that don't work against
gravity (such as the contraction of extensor muscles such as the
triceps) are weaker.
This of course is no longer true if a person specifically exercises
the triceps muscle to increase its strength.
A colleague of mine and her personal trainer believe that the triceps
is stronger than the biceps because:
- the triceps is a physically larger muscle with 3 heads, as opposed
to the biceps 2 (this is correct, but I don't think this alters the
fact that the triceps is still weaker than its antagonist)
- when lifting weights in the gym, more weight can be lifted using a
machine that isolates the triceps muscle than when a machine is used
that isolates the biceps muscle. Other gym users have also reported
this.
Many thanks, 
Laura
Answer  
There is no answer at this time.

Comments  
Subject: Re: Strength of biceps and triceps muscles
From: ipfan-ga on 16 Feb 2005 13:57 PST
 
Just my 2 cents:

I think that there is a perception that the triceps are stronger based
on weightlifting exercises only because people actually cheat on the
triceps pushdowns.  They lean into it or otherwise fail to isolate the
triceps.  Try this experiment: load up a curl bar with enough weight
to cause failure after ten reps of a strict biceps curl.  Use a
preacher rack or other device to ensure you aren't cheating.  Now lie
down on a bench and use that same weight to do the same number of reps
in a strict French curl, isolating the triceps.  I doubt you can do
ten reps.  Let me know if I am wrong.

Important Disclaimer: Answers and comments provided on Google Answers are general information, and are not intended to substitute for informed professional medical, psychiatric, psychological, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or other professional advice. Google does not endorse, and expressly disclaims liability for any product, manufacturer, distributor, service or service provider mentioned or any opinion expressed in answers or comments. Please read carefully the Google Answers Terms of Service.

If you feel that you have found inappropriate content, please let us know by emailing us at answers-support@google.com with the question ID listed above. Thank you.
Search Google Answers for
Google Answers  


Google Home - Answers FAQ - Terms of Service - Privacy Policy