NSCF Certified Personal Trainer Practice Exam

In a lateral lunge, the primary movement involves lowering the body sideways while pushing through the legs. The hip abductors play a significant role in this motion, as they are responsible for moving the leg away from the body's midline. These muscles, primarily the gluteus medius and tensor fascia lata, are activated to stabilize the pelvis and control the movement during the lunge. As the individual shifts their weight to the side, the hip abductors work to keep the body balanced and support the lowered position.

The other options, while involved in various forms of movement or stabilization, do not serve as the prime mover during the lateral lunge. For instance, the quadriceps are more engaged during knee extension and front-facing movements, while the hip adductors aid in bringing the leg back towards the midline rather than moving it out. The gastrocnemius, although important for ankle movement and stabilization, does not directly contribute to the lateral motion of the lunge. Therefore, the hip abductors correctly identify the primary muscle engaged during lateral lunges.