Movement Analysis: Axes of Movement

Understanding Axes of Movement

The human body can move along three different axes: the sagittal, the frontal, and the transverse.
The sagittal axis allows for movements in the frontal plane including flexion and extension movements such as nodding the head.
The frontal axis allows movements in the sagittal plane, like flexion and extension movements such as backflips.
The transverse axis allows movements in the vertical plane, including rotation movements like spinning around in circles.

Exploring Each Axis in Detail

Movements along the sagittal axis include those that involve bending forwards and backwards such as somersaults, diving forwards, and jumping jacks.
Movements along the frontal axis include those side-to-side movements like cartwheels and side lunges.
Movements around the transverse axis would include swinging a bat or a golf club, hip rotation while walking, and many dance moves where the body spins around.

Consequences of Movement on Different Axes

Proper understanding of the body’s movement along these axes can allow for improved athletic performance, greater flexibility, and less likelihood of injury.
For instance, a gymnast needs a strong understanding of all three axes to perform complex movements and routines.
Similarly, a golfer or a cricket player needs to understand and utilise the transverse axis for optimal performance.

Understanding Planes of Movement

The axial skelton’s movement is determined by three planes of movement, which coincide with the axes: the sagittal, frontal, and transverse planes.
The sagittal plane splits the body into left and right halves and includes movements like running or jumping.
The frontal plane splits the body into front and back halves, and it lets the body abduct and adduct, meaning move away from and towards the centre of the body.
The transverse plane divides the body into top and bottom halves and is where rotational movement happens.

Importance of Movement Analysis

By understanding movement analysis, including the axes and planes of movement, you can enhance your preparation, recovery, and execution of physical activity.
Not only can this understanding improve performance, but it can also assist with injury prevention and rehabilitation.
Moreover, this knowledge can be applied across different types of physical activities, including sports, dance, or any type of physical exercise.