Which of the following is the opposite of pronation?

The opposite of pronation is supination, which refers to a specific movement of the foot, hand, or forearm. In the context of the foot, pronation involves the inward rolling or flattening of the arch when walking or running, while supination involves the outward rolling of the foot and the lifting of the arch. In the case of the hand or forearm, pronation describes the rotation that turns the palm down or backward, whereas supination turns the palm up or forward.

Understanding these terms is crucial for fitness instructors, as proper alignment and movement patterns greatly impact performance and the risk of injury. When addressing movements related to balance, strength training, and even athletic performance, distinguishing between these two actions helps instructors guide clients more effectively in exercises and functional movements.

In comparing the other options, inversion refers to the movement of the foot where the sole turns inward, extension and flexion describe movements at joints that increase or decrease the angle between bones, respectively. While these movements are important concepts in anatomy and kinesiology, they do not directly oppose the action of pronation in the same way that supination does.