YMCA Anatomy & Physiology 3

Question 1

In yoga, 'bandhas' are often described as energetic locks. Anatomically, Mula Bandha most closely corresponds to engaging which muscles?

Accepted Answer

Pelvic floor muscles

Answer

Mula Bandha involves a lifting contraction of the perineal/pelvic floor muscles at the base of the pelvis.

Question 2

What type of joint is the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint?

Accepted Answer

Ball-and-socket joint

Answer

The glenohumeral joint is a multiaxial ball-and-socket joint allowing the greatest range of motion of any joint in the body.

Question 3

During pranayama, which muscle is considered the primary muscle of inhalation?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm

Answer

The diaphragm is the dome-shaped primary breathing muscle; its contraction flattens and increases thoracic volume on inhalation.

Question 4

The iliotibial (IT) band is a thickening of which connective tissue structure?

Accepted Answer

Fascia lata

Answer

The IT band is a lateral thickening of the fascia lata, the deep fascia enveloping the thigh.

Question 5

Which spinal curve is considered a secondary (acquired) curve?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar lordosis

Answer

Lumbar lordosis develops after birth as infants begin to stand and walk, making it a secondary curve unlike the primary thoracic and sacral kyphoses.

(YMCA) Young Men's Christian Association Yoga Certification Practice Test