Which term best describes the action of moving a limb away from the center of the body?

The action of moving a limb away from the center of the body is referred to as abduction. This movement typically involves raising the arm or leg laterally away from the midline. Abduction is a fundamental concept in anatomy and kinesiology, as it helps in understanding how limbs can move in relation to the body's center.

For example, when you raise your arms out to the sides, you are performing a movement of abduction. This term is essential for differentiating between other movements, such as adduction, which involves bringing a limb closer to the body’s center. Understanding these directional terms is crucial for identifying and describing movements accurately in sports medicine and rehabilitation settings.