Pupils should learn throughout PE the importance of healthy, active lifestyles and make connections between their PE lessons and lifelong physical activity. As part of healthy, active lifestyles, children should develop an understanding of basic anatomy, including the location and role of different muscles.

Pupils should learn throughout PE the importance of healthy, active lifestyles and make connections between their PE lessons and lifelong physical activity.
The five major upper body muscles
- Pectoralis Major - The large chest muscle is crucial for pushing movements.
- Latissimus Dorsi - The broad back muscle, essential for pulling and rowing actions.
- Deltoids - Shoulder muscles responsible for arm rotation and lifting.
- Trapezius - A large upper back muscle that supports shoulder blade movement.
- Biceps and Triceps - Front (biceps) and back (triceps) arm muscles that enable arm flexion and extension.
Download our diagram of the five main upper body muscles - perfect for displays or classroom work.