AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Pronation refers to which arm position?

1. Hands upward

2. Hands in front of the body

3. Hands downward

4. Hands sideways

The correct answer is: Hands downward

Pronation refers to the movement where the palms or hands face downward. This position is characterized by the forearm rotating so that the palm of the hand is directed towards the ground. This is a common anatomical position and is important in various exercises and functional movements, as it can impact how force is generated and how the muscles engage. Understanding pronation is crucial for trainers when assessing movement patterns and ensuring proper form to avoid injuries and optimize performance. The other arm positions do not represent pronation; for instance, hands upward would indicate a supinated position, while hands in front of the body could be neutral or in different orientations depending on the shoulder and wrist position. Hands sideways could suggest a horizontal extension or abduction, which also does not align with the definition of pronation.