NASM CES Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Guide for Exam Prep

Muscle imbalances can significantly affect movement efficiency by causing alterations in the way the body functions during activities. When certain muscles are overactive or tight while others are underactive or weak, this can lead to improper movement patterns and compensations. As a result, the body may struggle to perform tasks smoothly and effectively, leading to increased energy expenditure and a higher risk of injury.

These imbalances can disrupt joint stability, alignment, and the timing of muscle activation, which are critical for optimal movement. For instance, if a major muscle group is weaker than its opposing group, this can lead to dominant muscle overuse, which might benefit that specific movement but could compromise overall performance. Consequently, rather than facilitating efficiency, muscle imbalances ultimately result in a decrease in the ability to move fluidly and effectively. Therefore, addressing muscle imbalances is crucial for enhancing overall movement efficiency and preventing potential injuries.