Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Movement

From the study guide

Course Outline

  1. Anatomical position
  2. Directional terms
  3. Body planes and axes
  4. Joint movements
  5. Basketball jump shot analysis
  6. Exam-style applications

1. Anatomical position

Key Concepts & Definitions

  • Anatomical position: Anatomical position is the standard reference stance used to describe directions, planes, and movements consistently.

Essential Points

  • Directional terms are defined relative to a standing body facing forward with feet together and arms at the sides.
  • Palms face forward in anatomical position.
  • All plane and axis descriptions assume the anatomical position reference stance.

Memory Hook

Reference stance = “stand tall, face forward, arms down, palms forward.”

2. Directional terms

Key Concepts & Definitions

  • Superior: Superior describes a structure that lies toward the head or upper part of the body.
  • Inferior: Inferior describes a structure that lies toward the feet or lower part of the body.
  • Anterior: Anterior describes a structure positioned toward the front of the body.
  • Posterior: Posterior describes a structure positioned toward the back of the body.
  • Medial and lateral: Medial and lateral describe positions toward the body midline and away from the midline, respectively.

Essential Points

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Practice quiz preview

1. Which description best matches the anatomical position used as the standard reference for body directions and movements?

2. Why is the anatomical position important when describing planes, axes, and directional terms?

3. Which term describes a structure located closer to the point of attachment on a limb?

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Flashcard preview

Anatomical position — definition?

Standard stance facing forward with arms at sides.

Superior — direction?

Toward the head or upper body.

Frontal plane — division?

Divides body into front and back.

Sagittal plane — division?

Divides body into left and right.

Flexion — movement?

Decreases the angle between bones.

Elbow extension — action?

Straightens the elbow joint.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Movement study guide cover?

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How many questions are in the Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Movement quiz?

The practice quiz has 12 multiple-choice questions, each with an explanation. Use it to check what you know and find your gaps.

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