Planes and Axes of Movement

Introduction to Planes and Axes of Movement

  • The human body can move in three dimensions and these movements can be described in terms of planes and axes.
  • A plane is an imaginary flat surface running through the body, while an axis is a straight line around which an object rotates.
  • There are three main planes and axes in the human body: sagittal plane with its transverse axis, frontal plane with its sagittal axis, and transverse plane with its vertical axis.

Sagittal Plane and Transverse Axis

  • The sagittal plane divides the body into left and right sides.
  • Movement in this plane includes flexion and extension. Flexion is decreasing the angle between two body parts, while extension is increasing this angle.
  • Examples of sagittal plane movements include performing a bicep curl or kicking a football.
  • The movements occur around the transverse axis, which spans from left to right.

Frontal Plane and Sagittal Axis

  • The frontal plane (also known as the coronal plane) splits the body into front (anterior) and back (posterior) sections.
  • This involves adduction and abduction movements. Adduction brings a limb towards the centre of the body, whilst abduction moves it away.
  • An example includes doing jumping jacks or side lunges.
  • These movements operate around the sagittal axis, which runs from front to back.

Transverse Plane and Vertical Axis

  • The transverse plane (also called the horizontal plane) divides the body into top (superior) and bottom (inferior) portions.
  • Rotational movements occur in this plane. Internal rotation involves rotating towards the centre of the body, and external rotation means rotating away from the centre.
  • Twisting the torso or spinning on one foot exemplify these movements.
  • Rotation in this plane takes place around the vertical axis, running from top to bottom.

Planes, Axes, and Physical Education

  • Understanding the planes and axes of movement is key to mastering good form in various exercises and sporting activities.
  • This knowledge can prevent injury by ensuring safe and correct movements.
  • It can also help to improve technique and performance in activities such as running, jumping, and throwing.