ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What does the term "adduction" refer to in body movement?

1. Motion away from the midline

2. Rotation of the body

3. Motion toward the midline

4. Elevation of a body part

The correct answer is: Motion toward the midline

Adduction refers to the movement of a body part toward the midline of the body. This term is commonly used in anatomy and kinesiology to describe how limbs and other parts of the body move in relation to the center of the body. For example, when you bring your arms down to your sides from an outstretched position, you're performing adduction. Similarly, when you bring your legs together from a spread position, that's also adduction. Understanding this term is crucial for personal trainers as they design exercise programs. Many exercises involve adduction, such as leg squeezes with a ball or bench presses that bring the arms closer together. Knowing that adduction is the action of moving toward the midline helps trainers accurately instruct clients on proper movements and ensure that exercises are performed safely and effectively, facilitating muscle engagement and preventing injury.