Pilates Anatomy and Biomechanics Flashcards

When a client has an anterior pelvic tilt, which muscles are typically overactive?

Answer: Hip flexors and lumbar extensors

Anterior pelvic tilt is typically associated with tight, overactive hip flexors and lumbar extensors pulling the pelvis forward and downward.

The 'powerhouse' concept in Pilates certification encompasses which muscle regions?

Answer: Abdominals, lower back, hips, and glutes

Pilates defines the powerhouse as the entire musculature from the lower ribs to the hip crests, including abdominals, lower back, hips, and glutes.

Which type of muscle contraction occurs when the muscle lengthens under load?

Answer: Eccentric contraction

Eccentric contractions occur when a muscle lengthens while producing force, such as the abdominals lengthening as the legs lower during leg work.

What is the function of the serratus anterior in Pilates shoulder stability?

Answer: It protracts and upwardly rotates the scapula to keep it against the rib cage

The serratus anterior protracts and upwardly rotates the scapula, preventing winging and maintaining stable shoulder mechanics during Pilates arm work.

In biomechanical terms, what is 'scapulohumeral rhythm'?

Answer: The coordinated movement between the scapula and humerus during arm elevation

Scapulohumeral rhythm describes the coordinated ratio of glenohumeral to scapulothoracic movement during arm elevation, important for safe shoulder mechanics in Pilates.

Which connective tissue structure connects muscle to bone?

Answer: Tendon

Tendons are dense connective tissue structures that connect muscle to bone, transmitting the force generated by muscle contraction to create joint movement.