Types of Movement in Sport (Edexcel GCSE Physical Education): Revision Notes

Types Of Movement In Sport

1. Flexion and Extension

• Flexion: Decreasing the angle between two bones at a joint.
  • Example: Bending the elbow during a bicep curl.
• Extension: Increasing the angle between two bones at a joint.
  • Example: Straightening the knee when kicking a ball.

2. Abduction and Adduction

• Abduction: Moving a limb away from the midline of the body.
  • Example: Raising the arm sideways in a jumping jack.
• Adduction: Moving a limb towards the midline of the body.
  • Example: Bringing the legs together in a straddle jump.

3. Rotation

• Rotation: Circular movement around a longitudinal axis.
  • Example: Turning the head from side to side in a swimming backstroke.

4. Circumduction

• Circumduction: Circular movement of a limb, combining flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.
  • Example: Performing arm circles in gymnastics.

5. Dorsiflexion and Plantar Flexion

• Dorsiflexion: Raising the toes towards the shin.
  • Example: Flexing the ancle when preparing to kick a football.
• Plantar Flexion: Pointing the toes away from the shin.
  • Example: Pointing the toes in ballet or when pushing off the ground in sprinting.

6. Pronation and Supination

• Pronation: Rotating the forearm so the palm faces downwards.
  • Example: Turning the palm down to dribble a basketball.
• Supination: Rotating the forearm so the palm faces upwards.
  • Example: Holding a bowl of soup.

7. Inversion and Eversion

• Inversion: Turning the sole of the foot inward.
  • Example: Twisting the ancle during a misstep in running.
• Eversion: Turning the sole outward.
  • Example: Rolling the ancle outward during a soccer kick.

Application in Sports

• Improving Performance: Athletes can enhance their performance by understanding and training specific movements relevant to their sport.
• Injury Prevention: Knowledge of proper movement techniques helps prevent injuries.
• Technique Refinement: Coaches can analyse and correct movements to optimise athletic efficiency and effectiveness.