What describes the action of moving a limb in a circular motion?

Circumduction describes the action of moving a limb in a circular motion. This movement involves a combination of flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction, allowing the distal end of the limb to make a circular or conical motion while the proximal end remains relatively fixed. This type of movement is commonly observed in joints such as the shoulder or hip, where the limb can move freely in various directions, creating a circular pathway.

In contrast, flexion refers to decreasing the angle between body parts, abduction involves moving a limb away from the midline of the body, and adduction is the movement toward the midline. These actions do not encompass the full circular motion that circumduction provides. Therefore, understanding the definition and mechanics of circumduction is essential for recognizing the various ways limbs can move in fitness and physical training contexts.