ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What is the definition of 'flexion' in terms of joint movement?

1. Increasing the angle between two bones

2. Decreasing the angle between two bones

3. Moving toward the midline

4. Moving away from the midline

The correct answer is: Decreasing the angle between two bones

Flexion is defined as the movement at a joint that decreases the angle between two bones. This occurs when two body segments are brought closer together, demonstrating a bending movement. For example, consider the action of bending your elbow or knee. When you flex your elbow, the angle between the forearm and the upper arm gets smaller as the forearm moves toward the shoulder. This fundamental movement pattern plays a crucial role in many physical activities and exercises. Understanding flexion is essential for various aspects of training and rehabilitation, as it helps in analyzing movement mechanics and ensuring proper exercise form, which is vital for preventing injury and promoting effective strength development.