ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Which movement involves moving in a 360-degree arc?

1. Elevation

2. Circumduction

3. Extension

4. Adduction

The correct answer is: Circumduction

Circumduction is a type of movement that combines flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction, allowing a limb to move in a circular or 360-degree arc. This movement is typically observed in joints that allow for a wide range of motion, such as the shoulder and hip joints. During circumduction, the distal end of a limb moves in a circular path while the proximal end remains relatively stable, enabling a sweeping motion that can resemble circular rotation. The other movements mentioned focus on linear actions or directional changes. Elevation refers to moving a body part superiorly, such as shrugging the shoulders. Extension involves increasing the angle between body parts, as seen when straightening the elbow or knee. Adduction is the movement of a limb toward the midline of the body. Each of these movements has specific applications and characteristics, but none encompasses the circular motion that defines circumduction.