ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following muscles assists with lateral flexion and rotation of the spine?

1. Triceps brachii

2. Erector spinae

3. Obliques

4. Pectoralis minor

The correct answer is: Obliques

The obliques are the correct choice because they are specifically designed to assist with lateral flexion and rotation of the spine. The external and internal oblique muscles, located on the sides of the abdomen, play a significant role in these movements by allowing the torso to bend to the side and twist. In contrast, the triceps brachii primarily functions to extend the elbow and is involved in arm movements rather than spinal motion. The erector spinae muscles run along the length of the spine and primarily focus on spinal extension and maintaining an upright posture but do not specifically facilitate lateral flexion and rotation. The pectoralis minor is involved in movements of the shoulder and scapula, making it unrelated to the actions of spinal lateral flexion and rotation. Hence, the obliques are the muscles that directly contribute to these specific spinal movements.