Question 1

What is the difference between a plane and an axis in PE?

Accepted Answer

A plane is an imaginary flat surface that divides the body, like a sheet of glass. An axis is an imaginary line around which the body rotates, like a skewer through the body. Movements occur in a plane and around an axis that is perpendicular to that plane. For example, when you do a forward roll, you move in the sagittal plane (left-right division) and rotate around a frontal axis (side-to-side line).

Question 2

How do I remember which axis goes with which plane?

Accepted Answer

A simple way is to think of the axis as being perpendicular to the plane. The sagittal plane (cuts left/right) has a frontal axis (runs side-to-side). The frontal plane (cuts front/back) has a sagittal axis (runs front-to-back). The transverse plane (cuts top/bottom) has a vertical axis (runs top-to-bottom). You can also use the mnemonic: 'Sagittal Frontal, Frontal Sagittal, Transverse Vertical'.

Question 3

What are some examples of movements in each plane for OCR GCSE PE?

Accepted Answer

For the sagittal plane (frontal axis): a somersault, bicep curl, or running (flexion/extension at hips and knees). For the frontal plane (sagittal axis): a cartwheel, star jump, or side bend (abduction/adduction). For the transverse plane (vertical axis): a discus throw, golf swing, or spinal rotation in a tennis serve. Always check the primary movement – some actions involve multiple planes.

Question 4

Why do we need to learn about planes and axes in PE?

Accepted Answer

Understanding planes and axes helps you analyse and improve sports performance. For example, if a gymnast's cartwheel is crooked, you can identify that they are not moving purely in the frontal plane. It also helps in designing training programmes – a golfer needs rotational exercises in the transverse plane. This knowledge is key for biomechanics, injury prevention, and technique correction.

Question 5

Can a movement occur in more than one plane at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many complex movements are multi-planar. For example, a tennis serve involves sagittal plane (leg drive), frontal plane (arm abduction), and transverse plane (trunk rotation). However, in exams, you should identify the primary plane and axis for the main action. For instance, the serve's rotation is mainly transverse around a vertical axis.

Question 6

How do planes and axes relate to joint movements?

Accepted Answer

Each joint movement occurs in a specific plane around a specific axis. For example, flexion and extension at the elbow happen in the sagittal plane around a frontal axis. Abduction and adduction at the shoulder happen in the frontal plane around a sagittal axis. Rotation at the hip happens in the transverse plane around a vertical axis. This helps you link anatomy to movement analysis.

Planes of movement and axes of rotation

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Related Topics in OCR GCSE Physical Education

Aerobic and anaerobic exercise

Applied anatomy and physiology

Applying the principles of training

Characteristics of skilful movement

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