Functions of the skeletal system – Level 2 Sport BTEC Revision

The skeletal system plays a critical role in the body, beyond simply providing a structure.
It is composed of bones, cartilage, ligaments and tendons, and has five main functions: support, protection, movement, mineral storage and blood cell production.

The skeletal system provides a framework for the body’s structure, shaping and supporting the body.
It offers attachment points for muscles, contributing to body shape and posture.
The skeletal system also supports the body’s weight, enabling us to stand upright.

Vital organs are protected by the skeletal system, such as the brain which is encased by the skull, the heart and lungs which are protected by the ribcage, and the spinal cord which is shielded by the vertebral column.

The skeletal system facilitates movement by providing levers that muscles pull on to generate movement.
The places where bones meet, known as joints, also enable movement, with different types of joints allowing for different types and ranges of motion.

Bones are a major store of important minerals, particularly calcium and phosphate, which are necessary for various bodily functions.
If needed, the body can release these minerals from the bones into the bloodstream for use in other parts of the body.

The marrow inside certain bones, such as the hip and thigh bones, is the site of blood cell production.
Red and white blood cells, as well as platelets, are all produced within the bone marrow.
This function is essential for delivering oxygen to tissues (via the red blood cells), fighting infections (via the white blood cells), and blood clotting (via the platelets).

Understanding the functions of the skeletal system can benefit performance in sport by providing knowledge underlying injury prevention.
Knowing how different parts of the system, such as joints, facilitate movement can help in understanding the mechanics of certain sporting actions, which can be optimised for better performance and decreased injury risk.
Understanding the role of the skeletal system in mineral storage can guide dietary choices to ensure the body has an adequate supply of essential minerals.
Awareness of the skeletal system’s function in blood cell production highlights the importance of maintaining bone health for overall well-being, necessary for continuing participation in sport at any level.