What term defines the plane that divides the body into front and back portions?

The correct term that defines the plane dividing the body into front and back portions is the frontal plane, also referred to as the coronal plane. This plane runs vertically from side to side and creates an anterior (front) and posterior (back) section of the body. It is essential for understanding human anatomy and movement, as many movements and exercises can be analyzed in relation to this plane.

The frontal plane is particularly significant in physical therapy and rehabilitation because many exercises and functional movements occur in this plane, such as lateral raises or side lunges, which emphasize movements that occur along a vertical axis, separating the body into anterior and posterior parts.

Other planes mentioned serve different functions: the sagittal plane divides the body into left and right portions, while the transverse plane cuts the body into upper and lower sections. Knowing these distinctions is crucial for professionals in fields related to anatomy, physical therapy, and exercise science, as they help inform treatment strategies and movement analysis.