NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

In anatomical terms, what does adduction mean?

1. Movement away from the midline of the body

2. Movement toward the midline of the body

3. Rotating a limb away from the body

4. Extending a limb further from the body

The correct answer is: Movement toward the midline of the body

Adduction refers specifically to the movement of a body part toward the midline of the body. This term is commonly used in anatomy and exercise physiology to describe actions that draw limbs closer to the central axis of the body. For example, when performing exercises that involve bringing the arms down to the sides after they've been raised, or squeezing the legs together during specific movements, these actions are all forms of adduction. Understanding this term is essential for personal trainers as they design and implement exercise programs that incorporate movements involving the limbs. By accurately defining and utilizing terms like adduction, trainers can provide clearer instructions and improve the effectiveness of workouts for their clients. Other terms such as abduction, which involves movement away from the midline, are commonly compared to highlight the distinction between these opposing motions.