AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Which muscles make up the rotator cuff?

1. Deltoid, Biceps, Triceps, Pectoralis

2. Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres Minor, Subscapularis

3. Latissimus Dorsi, Teres Major, Rhomboids, Trapezius

4. Pectoralis Major, Biceps, Deltoid, Rotator Cuff

The correct answer is: Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres Minor, Subscapularis

The muscles that comprise the rotator cuff are specifically designed to stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a wide range of motion in the arm. The correct answer indicates the four main muscles that form the rotator cuff: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. The supraspinatus is crucial for initiating shoulder abduction, while the infraspinatus and teres minor are primarily involved in the external rotation of the shoulder. Subscapularis, located on the front of the shoulder, facilitates internal rotation. Together, these muscles work synergistically to ensure shoulder stability and proper function during various arm movements. Other choices include muscles that do not belong to the rotator cuff group. For example, the combination of deltoid, biceps, triceps, and pectoralis in one of the options consists of muscles that have different functions and anatomical locations, primarily involved in larger movements rather than stabilizing the shoulder. The selection of latissimus dorsi, teres major, rhomboids, and trapezius similarly encompasses muscles that are not part of the rotator cuff but contribute to broader shoulder and back movements. Likewise, pectoralis major and deltoid