Which plane divides the body into front and back halves?

The plane that divides the body into front and back halves is known as the coronal plane, also referred to as the frontal plane. This anatomical division creates a division perpendicular to the sagittal plane and runs vertically from side to side, separating the anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections of the body.

In the context of understanding body movements and positioning, the coronal plane is important for exercises that involve lateral movements, such as side lunges or lateral raises, which occur within this plane.

The transverse plane, on the other hand, runs horizontally and divides the body into upper and lower parts. The sagittal plane divides the body into left and right halves, while the mid-sagittal plane is a specific version of the sagittal plane that runs directly down the center of the body, creating equal left and right halves. Understanding these planes of movement is essential for fitness professionals in order to effectively design and communicate exercise programs.