Planes of and axes of movement

Planes and Axes of Movement

The movement of the human body can be understood using planes and axes of movement.
A plane is a flat surface along which a body can move, while an axis is an imaginary line through which a body can rotate or pivot.

Types of Planes

There are three types of planes: sagittal plane, frontal plane, and transverse plane.
The sagittal plane divides the body vertically into left and right halves. Movements in this plane include flexion (bending) and extension (straightening).
The frontal plane divides the body into front and back halves. Movements in this plane include abductions (moving away from the midline of the body) and adductions (moving toward the midline of the body).
The transverse plane divides the body horizontally into upper and lower halves. Movements in this plane involve internal (toward the centre) and external (away from the centre) rotations.

Types of Axes

There are three types of axes: sagittal axis, frontal axis, and vertical axis.
The sagittal axis runs front to back and allows movement around it in the frontal plane. For instance, a cartwheel happens around this axis.
The frontal axis runs left to right allowing movement in the sagittal plane. An example is a forward roll in gymnastics.
The vertical axis, or longitudinal axis, runs from top to bottom allowing movement in the transverse plane; for example, a pirouette in dance.

Understanding Planes and Axes

Familiarising oneself with planes and axes of movement contributes to understanding movements, postures, and body positions.
This knowledge is vital to enhancing performance and movement efficiency in physical activities.
Unravelling the relationship between planes and axes also aids injury prevention, as it can help identify unsafe movements and postures.