SBC Core Anatomy and Physiology 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which muscle group forms the primary stabilizing core and is most targeted during stability ball exercises?
- Transverse abdominis (Correct answer)
- Rectus abdominis
- Biceps femoris
- Gastrocnemius
Correct answer: Transverse abdominis
The transverse abdominis is the deepest abdominal muscle and serves as the primary core stabilizer activated during stability ball work.
Question 2: What term describes the ability of the core muscles to maintain spinal alignment under load?
- Lumbar mobility
- Core stiffness (Correct answer)
- Hip flexion
- Scapular retraction
Correct answer: Core stiffness
Core stiffness refers to the co-contraction of trunk muscles that resists unwanted spinal movement during stability ball exercises.
Question 3: Which spinal region is most protected by engaging the multifidus during stability ball training?
- Cervical spine
- Thoracic spine
- Lumbar spine (Correct answer)
- Sacral spine
Correct answer: Lumbar spine
The multifidus attaches along the lumbar vertebrae and plays a critical role in protecting and stabilizing the lower back.
Question 4: The erector spinae muscle group runs along which aspect of the vertebral column?
- Anterior
- Lateral
- Posterior (Correct answer)
- Medial
Correct answer: Posterior
The erector spinae run along the posterior (back) side of the vertebral column, providing extension and lateral flexion of the spine.
Question 5: What role do the oblique muscles play during rotational stability ball movements?
- Hip extension
- Spinal rotation and lateral flexion (Correct answer)
- Knee flexion
- Shoulder elevation
Correct answer: Spinal rotation and lateral flexion
The internal and external obliques control spinal rotation and lateral flexion, making them essential for rotational stability ball drills.
Question 6: Which connective structure links the thoracolumbar fascia to core stability on the stability ball?
- Patellar tendon
- Achilles tendon
- Thoracolumbar fascia (Correct answer)
- Plantar fascia
Correct answer: Thoracolumbar fascia
The thoracolumbar fascia connects the latissimus dorsi, gluteals, and deep abdominals, serving as a key tension structure for core stability.
SBC Core Anatomy and Physiology 1
Which muscle group forms the primary stabilizing core and is most targeted during stability ball exercises?