upperbody

Upper body refers to the portion of the human body that lies above the waist. In everyday use it includes the head, neck, shoulders, chest, back, and the upper limbs (arms, forearms, and hands). In formal anatomy and clinical contexts, more precise terms such as head and neck, thorax, and upper limb describe the same region and its subdivisions. The upper body contains the shoulder girdle, which connects the arms to the trunk, and the thoracic cage that protects vital organs such as the heart and lungs.

Anatomy: The skeleton comprises the skull, clavicles, scapulae, sternum, ribs, vertebrae of the cervical and thoracic spine, and the bones of the upper limb (humerus, radius, ulna, and the bones of the hand). Major muscles include the pectoralis major and minor, deltoids, trapezius, latissimus dorsi, serratus anterior, and the muscles of the rotator cuff; the biceps and triceps act at the elbow. Nerves of the brachial plexus and the arteries and veins supply the region.

Function and health: The upper body enables pushing, pulling, lifting, reaching, and varied hand use. It also participates in breathing through thoracic expansion. Common health considerations include posture, shoulder stability, and injuries such as rotator cuff tears, impingement, tendinopathy, and strains. In fitness contexts, tests and training focus on strength and endurance of the chest, back, shoulders, and arms, with attention to balanced development and joint safety.