Lesson 2: Planes of Motion

Planes of Motion: A Comprehensive and Continuing Education Credit Approved Training Course

Understanding the three planes of motion—sagittal, frontal, and transverse—is fundamental for accurate exercise analysis, program design, and movement assessment. This course offers a comprehensive overview of anatomical planes of motion and their application in fitness, rehabilitation, and sports performance.

Mastery of the planes of motion is essential for professionals designing exercise programs, analyzing joint actions, and developing rehabilitation interventions, forming a critical foundation for all movement science disciplines.

Course Overview

Planes of motion are imaginary two-dimensional surfaces that divide the body relative to directions of motion (forward, sideways, rotation, etc.). The planes of motion are a standardized reference system used to aid in analyzing joint actions, motion, body position, and anatomical locations. There are three primary planes of motion used in anatomy and kinesiology: the sagittal plane, the frontal plane (coronal plane), and the transverse plane (horizontal plane). These planes are also known as cardinal planes.

• Sagittal plane  : The sagittal plane divides the body into left and right halves and refers to a motion that is forward, backward, up, and down, such as a squat or suspension row .
• Frontal plane (coronal plane)  : The frontal plane divides the body into front (anterior) and back (posterior) halves, referring to motion that is side to side and up and down, such as a jumping jack, wide-grip pull-ups , or military press .
• Transverse plane (horizontal plane): The transverse plane divides the body into top and bottom halves and refers to motion in which the arms or legs start parallel to the horizon and come together (horizontal adduction) or spread apart (horizontal abduction) or when joints rotate or pivot. Examples include bench press , axe chops , and seated adduction.

Additional Plane:

• Scapular Plane: The scapular plane is the plane of the scapula. It is medially rotated approximately 30-40 degrees from the frontal plane (between the frontal and sagittal planes). The scapula's medially rotated position is due to the elliptical shape of the rib cage. Although this is not a cardinal plane, it is sometimes used to describe upper extremity motion.

Key Applications

• Analyze exercises based on their primary plane of motion.
• Program exercise selections to develop strength and stability across all three planes.
• Understand the relationship between joint actions and anatomical planes (e.g., flexion and extension in the sagittal plane).
• Apply planes of motion knowledge to sport-specific, functional, and rehabilitation programming.

Recognizing that most exercises occur in the sagittal plane, this course emphasizes the importance of incorporating frontal and transverse plane movements to develop true multiplanar strength, essential for athletic activities and daily functional tasks, such as getting out of a car or pivoting during sport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is understanding planes of motion important in exercise?

• Comprehension of planes of motion ensures balanced workout programs that target all directions of movement, promoting functional strength, injury prevention, and improved overall performance.

What exercises correspond to each plane of motion?

• Sagittal Plane: Lunges, deadlifts, push-ups
• Frontal Plane: Side lunges, lateral raises, side shuffles
• Transverse Plane: Russian twists, cable rotations, rotational medicine ball throws

What is the sagittal plane in anatomy?

• The sagittal plane is a vertical division of the body into two halves, left and right. Movements in this plane involve flexion and extension, such as bending forward or extending backward.

How can training in all three planes of motion benefit athletes?

• Multiplanar training enhances coordination, balance, strength, and joint stability, helping athletes perform complex movements efficiently while reducing injury risk.

Which plane of motion is most commonly trained?

• The sagittal plane is the most commonly trained. Most lower body exercises, many back exercises, some core exercises, and some pushing exercises all occur in the sagittal plane.

Pre-approved Credits for:

• Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Certification

Pre-approved for Continuing Education Credits for:

• Athletic Trainers
• Chiropractors
• Group Exercise Instructors
• Massage Therapists
• Occupational Therapists - Introductory
• Personal Trainers
• Physical Therapists
• Physical Therapy Assistants
• Yoga Instructors

This Course Includes:

• AI Tutor
• Video Lecture
• Study Guide
• Text of Material
• Learning Activities
• Planes and Exercises Table
• Practice Exam
• Pre-approved Final Exam

Caption: The sagitall, coronal (frontal), and transverse planes

Bibliography

1. Donald A. Neumann, “Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System: Foundations of Rehabilitation – 2nd Edition” © 2012 Mosby, Inc.
2. Tom Myers, Anatomy Trains: Second Edition. © Elsevier Limited 2009
3. David G. Simons, Janet Travell, Lois S. Simons, Travell & Simmons’ Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction, The Trigger Point Manual, Volume 1. Upper Half of Body: Second Edition,© 1999 Williams and Wilkens
4. Cynthia C. Norkin, D. Joyce White, Measurement of Joint Motion: A Guide to Goniometry – Third Edition. © 2003 by F.A. Davis Company
5. Cynthia C. Norkin, Pamela K. Levangie, Joint Structure and Function: A Comprehensive Analysis: Fifth Edition © 2011 F.A. Davis Company
6. Carolyn Richardson, Paul Hodges, Julie Hides. Therapeutic Exercise for Lumbo Pelvic Stabilization – A Motor Control Approach for the Treatment and Prevention of Low Back Pain: 2nd Edition (c) Elsevier Limited, 2004
7. Andrew Biel, Trail Guide to the Human Body: 4th Edition, © 2010
8. David B. Jenkins, Hollinshead’s Functional Anatomy of the Limbs and Back: Eighth Edition © 2002 Saunders
9. John V. Basmajian, Carlo J. De Luca. Muscles Alive: Their Function Revealed by ElectroMyography. 1985