Crossfit Trainer Practice Test Level 1

Which cue should be given if the elbows are flaring during a muscle up?

1. Keep elbows close during movement

2. Open up the chest more

3. Extend legs when pulling

4. Pull harder with the arms

The correct answer is: Keep elbows close during movement

The appropriate cue for managing the issue of flaring elbows during a muscle-up is to keep the elbows close during the movement. This cue encourages the athlete to maintain a compact position, allowing for better control and muscle engagement throughout the exercise. When elbows flare, it can lead to decreased efficiency and potential strain on the shoulders, reducing overall performance. By prompting the athlete to keep their elbows close, the movement pattern will focus on proper technique, engaging the correct muscle groups effectively. Opening up the chest more may lead to further extension of the arms, which does not address the flaring elbows issue and could exacerbate the problem. Extending the legs when pulling might also distract the athlete from focusing on torso and arm positioning. Additionally, simply encouraging the athlete to pull harder with the arms doesn't focus on the mechanics of the movement, which are crucial to executing a muscle-up correctly. The emphasis on keeping elbows close directly addresses the fundamental issue of flaring, promoting a more efficient and safe execution of the muscle-up.