In joint movement, what does pronation refer to?

Pronation refers specifically to the movement that turns the palms of the hands downward, or facing down. This movement is crucial in various activities and exercises, such as during push-ups or when lifting weights, where the grip changes can engage different muscle groups. Understanding this movement is essential for proper form in many exercises, as it impacts how forces are distributed throughout the arm and shoulder.

The other options describe different movements that do not fit the definition of pronation. For instance, having the palms facing up is referred to as supination, rotating the shoulder joint pertains to a different range of motion focused on the arm's rotational mechanics, and flexing at the elbow joint describes the bending movement of the arm rather than the orientation of the palms. Understanding these distinctions helps in effectively teaching and performing exercises.