GC Anatomy & Physiology for Gyrotonic Practice

Question 1

The human spine is made up of how many vertebrae in total, including fused segments?

Accepted Answer

33

Answer

The human spine has 33 vertebrae total: 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral (fused into the sacrum), and 4 coccygeal (fused into the coccyx).

Question 2

Cervical lordosis is best described as which type of spinal curve?

Accepted Answer

A secondary curve that develops after birth

Answer

Cervical lordosis is a secondary curve that develops after birth when the infant begins to hold up the head, distinguishing it from the primary thoracic and sacral kyphotic curves.

Question 3

The diaphragm, which is coordinated with breath in Gyrotonic practice, is best described as what shape?

Accepted Answer

Dome-shaped

Answer

The diaphragm is a dome-shaped musculotendinous structure that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities and descends during inhalation to increase thoracic volume.

Question 4

The joints between adjacent vertebral bodies — central to spinal articulation in Gyrotonic — are classified as which type of joint?

Accepted Answer

Fibrocartilaginous joints (symphyses)

Answer

Intervertebral discs form fibrocartilaginous joints (symphyses) between adjacent vertebral bodies, permitting slight movement while providing shock absorption.

Question 5

Which muscle group is the primary extensor of the vertebral column and is frequently engaged in Gyrotonic spinal wave movements?

Accepted Answer

Erector spinae

Answer

The erector spinae is a group of muscles running longitudinally along the spine that serves as the primary extensor of the vertebral column.

(GC) Gyrotonic Certification Practice Test

(GC) Gyrotonic Certification Practice Test

GC Anatomy & Physiology for Gyrotonic Practice