2.2.1

Planes & Axes of Movement

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Sagittal Axis

The sagittal axis passes horizontally (parallel to the ground) through the body from back to front.

Frontal plane

Frontal plane

  • The frontal plane involves side to side movements - abduction or adduction.
  • Movements on a frontal plane (side to side) take place around the sagittal axis.
Movements

Movements

  • Any movements where the limbs are moving away from or towards the midline of the body are on a frontal plane.
  • Examples include star jumps, cartwheels and side bending.

Longitudinal Axis

The longitudinal axis passes vertically (up or down) from the top of the body to the bottom (feet).

Transverse plane

Transverse plane

  • The transverse plane is rotational or turning movements (rotation).
  • Movements on a transverse plane (rotation) take place around a longitudinal axis running from top to bottom (like a pole).
Movements

Movements

  • Any movements that involve spinning around the centre poles are rotations.
  • Examples include throwing a discus, a hammer throw and a 360 degrees ice-skating spin.

Transverse Axis

The transverse axis passes horizontally (parallel to the ground) through the body from left to right.

Sagittal plane

Sagittal plane

  • Sagittal plane: forwards or backwards movements (extension/flexion).
  • Movements on a sagittal plane (forwards/backwards) take place around a transverse axis.
Movements

Movements

  • Any movements that go forwards or backwards in a straight line are on a sagittal plane.
  • Examples include walking, running, squats, bicep curls, leg extensions and front somersaults.
Jump to other topics
1

Applied Anatomy & Physiology

2

Movement Analysis

3

Physical Training

4

The Principles of Training

5

Using Data

6

Sports Psychology

7

Socio-cultural Influences

8

Health & Fitness

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