Planes and Axes of Movement

• “Planes and axes of movement” refers to the various ways in which the body can move in three-dimensional space during physical activity.

Planes:

• There are three planes of movement: frontal, sagittal, and transverse.

• The Sagittal plane divides the body into left and right halves. Actions such as running or jumping, where the movement is forward or backward, occur in this plane.

• The Frontal plane splits the body into front/back halves. Movements along this plane are those that go side-to-side, like doing a cartwheel or side lunges.

• The Transverse plane divides the body into top and bottom halves. Rotational movements happen along this plane, such as spinning on the spot or a golfer swinging a club.

Axes:

• Just as there are three planes, there are also three axes of rotation: longitudinal, transverse, and frontal.

• The Longitudinal axis runs from head to foot, with rotation around this axis resulting in movement like a cartwheel or spinning around in a circle.

• The Transverse axis goes from left to right, with rotation occurring around this axis when an individual performs a forward or backward roll.

• Lastly, the Frontal axis runs from side to side. Any action where there is a sideways flip or bend, like performing a side roll, is rotating around this axis.

• Understanding these planes and axes of movement helps in dissecting and bettering one’s physical performance in various athletic and daily activities. Consequently, it forms a crucial part of physical education.

• Practice and rehearsal of movements in sport can lead to improved motor skills and performance when we understand which planes and axes these movements occur. This topic will also provide a scientific explanation for why some skills/techniques are more effective than others.

• To deepen your understanding, try identifying the planes and axes used in different physical activities and sports you enjoy. This will also help you remember critical points about this topic.