NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

In a second class lever, where do the muscle force and resistance force act?

1. On opposite sides of the fulcrum

2. On the same side of the fulcrum

3. At the fulcrum itself

4. Randomly along the lever arm

The correct answer is: On the same side of the fulcrum

In a second class lever, both the muscle force and the resistance force act on the same side of the fulcrum. In this type of lever system, the fulcrum is located at one end of the lever, while the load (resistance) is positioned between the fulcrum and the point where the muscle applies force. This arrangement allows the force applied by the muscle to move a greater load with less effort. A classic example of a second class lever is a wheelbarrow. The wheel acts as the fulcrum; the load is situated in the middle, and the force applied by the person lifting the handles is at the opposite end. This configuration maximizes mechanical advantage, making it easier to lift heavy objects. Understanding the placement of forces in a second class lever is crucial for personal trainers, as it relates to proper biomechanics and optimizing exercise techniques for clients.