Advanced Personal Training – Lesson #6
Anatomical Directions
Definition
Anatomical directions are standard terms used to describe the location or position of one body part in relation to another. These terms help trainers, physiotherapists, and doctors communicate clearly and avoid confusion.
The reference point is always the anatomical position:
Standing upright
Facing forward
Arms at the sides
Palms facing forward
Feet slightly apart
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Key Anatomical Direction Terms (with Explanation & Examples)
1. Superior (Cranial)
Meaning: Toward the head or upper part of the body.
Example: The chest is superior to the abdomen.
2. Inferior (Caudal)
Meaning: Toward the feet or lower part of the body.
Example: The stomach is inferior to the lungs.
3. Anterior (Ventral)
Meaning: Toward the front of the body.
Example: The chest is anterior to the spine.
4. Posterior (Dorsal)
Meaning: Toward the back of the body.
Example: The spine is posterior to the heart.
5. Medial
Meaning: Toward the midline of the body.
Example: The nose is medial to the eyes.
6. Lateral
Meaning: Away from the midline of the body.
Example: The ears are lateral to the eyes.
7. Proximal
Meaning: Closer to the point of origin or attachment (usually limbs).
Example: The elbow is proximal to the wrist.
8. Distal
Meaning: Farther from the point of origin or attachment.
Example: The fingers are distal to the elbow.
9. Superficial (External)
Meaning: Closer to the surface of the body.
Example: The skin is superficial to the muscles.
10. Deep (Internal)
Meaning: Away from the body surface, more internal.
Example: The bones are deep to the skin.
