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.

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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.
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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).

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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).
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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.

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Sagittal plane

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

1Applied Anatomy & Physiology

2Movement Analysis

3Physical Training

4The Principles of Training

5Using Data

6Sports Psychology

7Socio-cultural Influences

8Health & Fitness

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