What postural deviation occurs when the knees excessively bow outward away from the midline?

The condition where the knees excessively bow outward away from the midline is known as varus alignment. This specific postural deviation is commonly referred to as "knee varus," which describes a scenario where the lower legs are angled away from the body's centerline while the knees remain closer together.

Knee varus can affect body mechanics, leading to potential inefficiencies or complications in movement patterns, especially during weight-bearing activities. Understanding this condition is important for personal trainers, as addressing postural deviations can help improve performance and reduce the risk of injuries for clients.

In contrast, other terms mentioned relate to different types of knee alignment or movement. For example, valgus describes a condition where the knees angle inward towards the midline, which is the opposite of varus. Hyperextension pertains to the knee extending beyond its normal range, leading to a straightened appearance rather than a bowing effect. Pronation typically refers to the inward rolling of the foot during walking or running, which does not directly relate to knee alignment. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial when assessing clients' biomechanics and developing appropriate training programs.