Questions: Which best describes the latissimus dorsi?
swimmer's muscle
trumpeter's muscle
most important breathing muscle
boxer's muscle
"workhorse" of the elbow flexors
Transcript text: Which best describes the latissimus dorsi?
swimmer's muscle
trumpeter's muscle
most important breathing muscle
boxer's muscle
"workhorse" of the elbow flexors
Solution
The answer is the first one: swimmer's muscle.
Explanation for each option:
Swimmer's muscle: The latissimus dorsi is often referred to as the "swimmer's muscle" because it is heavily involved in movements such as adduction, extension, and internal rotation of the shoulder, which are crucial in swimming strokes.
Trumpeter's muscle: This term is not typically associated with the latissimus dorsi. The muscles more relevant to playing a trumpet would involve those around the mouth and diaphragm.
Most important breathing muscle: The diaphragm is the most important muscle for breathing, not the latissimus dorsi.
Boxer's muscle: The serratus anterior is more commonly referred to as the "boxer's muscle" because it helps in the protraction of the scapula, which is important in punching movements.
"Workhorse" of the elbow flexors: This description is more applicable to the brachialis muscle, which is a primary flexor of the elbow.
In summary, the latissimus dorsi is best described as the "swimmer's muscle" due to its role in movements that are essential for swimming.