What does extension refer to in the context of joint movement?

In the context of joint movement, extension specifically refers to the action that increases the angle between two body parts at a joint. For instance, when you straighten your arm at the elbow or your leg at the knee, you are performing an extension. This movement is fundamental in various physical activities, making it essential for understanding how the body moves during exercise and sports.

The other options describe different types of joint movement: decreasing the angle is flexion, moving a limb in a circular motion refers to circumduction, and holding a joint in a locked position could be related to stabilization or isometric contractions. Understanding these terms helps to clarify how different movements work in physical education and the biomechanics of exercise.