Corrections Officer State Certification SOCE Practice Exam Prep & Study Guide

Voluntary muscles are defined as muscles that are under conscious control, meaning you can decide when to contract or relax these muscles intentionally. These muscles are primarily skeletal muscles, which are attached to bones and allow for movement of the body. The ability to control these muscles enables activities such as walking, running, lifting objects, and performing various physical tasks.

In contrast, muscles that act automatically without conscious thought are referred to as involuntary muscles, which include smooth muscles (found in internal organs) and cardiac muscles (found in the heart). These involuntary muscles function without the need for conscious control, performing essential tasks necessary for survival, such as digestion and circulation. This distinction is fundamental in understanding human anatomy and physiology, especially in the context of physical activities and movements.