What part do the sternocleidomastoid and scalene play in exercise?
a. they assist the diaphragm in expelling air forcefully
b. they pull the diaphragm up towards the rib cage at the end of expiration
c. they act as accessories to the diaphragm to help expand the rib cage
d. they are they primary muscles used in power breathing
Answer: c. they act as accessories to the diaphragm to help expand the rib cage
The sternocleidomastoid and scalenus act as accessories to the diaphragm to help expand the rib cage. when exercise induces deeper breathing, these muscles kick in to assist in lifting the rib cage to expand it to a greater volume.