ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

What movement does the pectoralis minor NOT perform?

1. Retraction

2. Protraction

3. Depression

4. Extension

The correct answer is: Extension

The pectoralis minor is primarily involved in movements associated with the scapula, including protraction, depression, and retraction. However, it does not contribute to extension of the shoulder joint. Extension typically refers to the action of moving a limb backward, such as the arm during certain overhead positions or movements. This specific action is primarily facilitated by muscles such as the latissimus dorsi and the posterior deltoid, which are responsible for pulling the arm back and allowing for extension. Understanding the role of the pectoralis minor is crucial because it is mainly engaged in actions that position the scapula. Protraction moves the scapula forward, depression lowers the scapula, and retraction pulls it backward. Consequently, recognizing that extension is outside the scope of the pectoralis minor's function highlights the importance of distinguishing between the roles of different muscles in upper body biomechanics.