A little understanding goes a long way

Movement glossary

Explore the language of your body, movement, and care. Find clear definitions, everyday examples, and related reading.

A

1 TERM

Movement basics
Aerobic exercise
Aerobic exercise involves repeated movement of large muscle groups over a period of time. It increases breathing and heart rate to meet the body’s activity demands.

B

1 TERM

Movement basics
Balance
The ability to maintain stability while still or moving.

C

3 TERMS

Body & anatomy
Cervical spine
The cervical spine is the neck region of the spine. It contains seven vertebrae, labeled C1 through C7, and supports the head.
Planning a session
Cool-down
A gradual reduction in activity toward the end of a session.
Movement basics
Core muscles
Core muscles are the muscles around your trunk and pelvis that help control and support your body during movement. The term includes more than the abdominal muscles at the front of your body.

F

1 TERM

Movement basics
Flexibility
The available range of movement around a joint, influenced by the muscles and other tissues around it.

G

1 TERM

Movement basics
Gait
Gait means the way you walk. It includes the pattern and coordination of your steps as you move from one place to another.

H

1 TERM

Movement basics
Hip hinge
A movement pattern in which the hips bend as the torso tips forward and the hips move back. The knees may bend too.

I

1 TERM

Movement basics
Isometric exercise
An isometric exercise involves muscles producing tension while the joint position and muscle length remain approximately the same.

J

1 TERM

Body & anatomy
Joint
A joint is a place where bones meet. Different kinds of joints allow different amounts and types of movement.

L

2 TERMS

M

3 TERMS

P

1 TERM

Symptoms & care
Physical therapist
A physical therapist is a licensed healthcare professional who evaluates movement and function and helps people improve their ability to take part in daily activities.

R

3 TERMS

S

5 TERMS

T

3 TERMS

V

1 TERM

Body & anatomy
Vertebrae
Vertebrae are the bones that form the spine. The singular word is vertebra. Together, these bones provide support and form a protective passage for the spinal cord and nerves.

W

2 TERMS