The three planes of motion in exercise are indeed sagittal, frontal, and horizontal. Understanding these planes is essential for designing effective workouts and ensuring that exercises engage different muscle groups appropriately.
The sagittal plane divides the body into left and right halves. Movements in this plane include flexion and extension, such as bicep curls or squats, where the body moves forward and backward.
The frontal plane splits the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) halves. Movements such as lateral raises or side lunges occur in this plane, allowing for side-to-side movement.
The horizontal plane, also referred to as the transverse plane, divides the body into upper and lower parts. Movements in this plane involve rotation, such as in trunk rotations or twisting exercises.
An understanding of these planes not only aids instructors in developing comprehensive training programs but is also crucial for athletes to perform exercises safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of injury and maximizing performance.