Which term describes the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body?

The term that describes the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body is abduction. This movement involves moving a body part, such as an arm or leg, laterally away from the centerline of the body. It is important in various exercises and physical activities where limbs perform actions that extend outward, contributing to functional movements and overall mobility.

Adduction, in contrast, refers to the movement toward the midline, so it relates to bringing limbs closer together. Extension is the straightening of a joint, which can occur in various contexts but does not specifically address lateral movement. Flexion refers to bending a joint to decrease the angle between two body parts, which is also unrelated to moving a limb away from the midline. Recognizing these definitions helps to better understand the mechanics of movement and the terminology used in fitness and anatomy.