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What does the axial skeleton consist of?

  1. 126 bones including the upper and lower extremities

  2. 80 bones including the skull, spinal column, sternum, and ribs

  3. Both 80 and 126 bones

  4. Only the skull and spinal column

The correct answer is: 80 bones including the skull, spinal column, sternum, and ribs

The axial skeleton is composed of 80 bones, which include the skull, vertebral column (spinal column), sternum, and ribs. This foundational structure is critical for protecting vital organs, providing support, and serving as a framework for the body's upright posture. More specifically, the skull houses and protects the brain, while the vertebral column safeguards the spinal cord, an essential component of the nervous system. The sternum and ribs encase the thoracic cavity, protecting vital organs such as the heart and lungs. Understanding the composition and function of the axial skeleton is essential for personal trainers, as it helps them to appreciate the biomechanical principles that underpin human movement, posture, and exercise safety.