Crossfit Trainer Practice Test Level 1

What could indicate that an athlete is not achieving full hip extension during a medicine ball clean?

1. Lifting the chest too high

2. Back bending excessively

3. Not maintaining a lumbar curve

4. Lack of full hip extension

The correct answer is: Lack of full hip extension

The indication that an athlete is not achieving full hip extension during a medicine ball clean is best reflected by a lack of full hip extension itself. In this movement, full hip extension is crucial for generating power and transferring force effectively through the body. If an athlete fails to achieve this, it can lead to inefficiencies in their lifting mechanics and reduce the effectiveness of the exercise. When the hips do not extend fully, it suggests that the athlete is not utilizing their lower body muscles to their maximum potential, which can also impact their overall performance and safety. The movement relies heavily on the explosive extension of the hips to propel the medicine ball upward. Hence, the direct observation of a lack of full hip extension is a clear and specific indicator of improper execution that can be actively addressed in training. In contrast, while other factors like lifting the chest too high, excessive back bending, or failing to maintain a lumbar curve can affect the overall posture and execution of the movement, they do not directly demonstrate the specific failure to achieve full hip extension. These behaviors may lead to compensations or injuries, but they do not serve as clear indicators of hip extension performance.