ACE ACE Anatomy & Biomechanics 2

Question 1

Which muscle is the primary stabilizer of the lumbar spine and is often targeted with core stability exercises in group fitness?

Accepted Answer

Transverse abdominis

Answer

The transverse abdominis is the deepest abdominal muscle that acts like a corset to stabilize the lumbar spine before limb movement occurs.

Question 2

What is the term for the phase of a muscle contraction in which the muscle lengthens while under tension?

Accepted Answer

Eccentric contraction

Answer

An eccentric contraction occurs when a muscle produces force while lengthening, such as lowering a weight under control.

Question 3

During a lunge, which muscle group performs a concentric contraction to return the participant to the starting position?

Accepted Answer

Quadriceps and gluteus maximus

Answer

The quadriceps extend the knee and the gluteus maximus extends the hip concentrically to propel the body back to the upright starting position.

Question 4

What anatomical structure connects muscle to bone and transmits muscular force to produce joint movement?

Accepted Answer

Tendon

Answer

Tendons are dense connective tissue structures that attach muscle to bone, transmitting the contractile force to create skeletal movement.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes pronation of the forearm?

Accepted Answer

Rotating the forearm so the palm faces downward

Answer

Forearm pronation is the rotational movement that turns the palm from facing up to facing down.

ACE - American Council on Exercise Group Fitness Practice Test