ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What is the ideal Flexion:Extension Ratio in McGill's endurance tests?

1. Exactly 1

2. Less than 1

3. Greater than 1

4. Equal to 1.5

The correct answer is: Less than 1

The ideal Flexion:Extension Ratio in McGill's endurance tests is typically considered to be less than 1. This means that the endurance of the flexor muscles should ideally be stronger or more enduring in comparison to the extensor muscles. A ratio of less than 1 suggests that the trunk flexors are more capable and resilient than the trunk extensors, which is crucial for maintaining proper postural stability and reducing the risk of injury. In the context of physical training and rehabilitation, having a lower ratio helps ensure that the abdominal and flexor muscles can effectively control the pelvis and spine during various movements and exercises. Imbalances, where the ratio is equal to or greater than 1, can indicate potential issues such as weakness in the flexors or overdeveloped extensors, both of which could lead to poor posture or increased risk of back injury. Therefore, a Flexion:Extension Ratio of less than 1 is considered ideal in this testing framework.