What does the term 'abduction' refer to in muscle movement?

The term 'abduction' specifically refers to movement away from the midline of the body. This action is essential in various physical activities and exercises, including Pilates, where it plays a vital role in maintaining proper alignment and balance. For instance, if you raise your arms laterally away from your body or move your legs outward from the center, you are performing abduction. Understanding this term is crucial for instructors and practitioners alike, as it helps to enhance body awareness and improve movement efficiency during exercises.

In contrast, the other choices pertain to different types of movements; for example, movement toward the midline is known as adduction, rotation refers to turning around an axis, and flexing a joint involves decreasing the angle between body parts. Recognizing these distinctions allows practitioners to communicate effectively about body movements and to execute exercises with precision.