Origin
Having a broad origin, it arises from the spinous processes of T7–T12, iliac crest, thoracolumbar fascia and the inferior 9th–12th ribs.
Insertion
Intertubercular sulcus of the humerus, between the pectoralis major and teres major muscles.
Nerves
Thoracodorsal nerve (C6–C8).
Blood supply
Thoracodorsal branch of the subscapular artery.
The Latissimus Dorsi, a broad, flat muscle, is the widest muscle in the human body. Relatively thin, it covers most of the back muscles (except for the trapezius) of the lower posterior trunk. The name “latissimus dorsi” translates from Latin as the “broadest [muscle] of the back,” reflecting its extensive spread across the posterior torso.
The Latissimus Dorsi acts as a vital anatomical connection between the trunk and the upper limb. Covering much of the lower posterior trunk, it provides structural support to the spine and pelvis. Its broad surface area enhances interaction with other muscles involved in scapular motion and glenohumeral stability.
Functionally, the Latissimus Dorsi primarily interacts with muscles that control scapular movement. It can pull the inferior angle of the scapula, facilitating movements at the glenohumeral joint, including internal rotation, adduction, and extension of the arm. Additionally, due to its expansive attachments, the Latissimus Dorsi functions as an accessory respiratory muscle, aiding in torso stabilization and movement.
This connectivity and positioning make the Latissimus Dorsi a key component in various functional and athletic activities, commonly targeted in both rehabilitation and performance-based training.
The Latissimus Dorsi is a powerful and versatile muscle located primarily in the lower back. It plays several key roles in upper body movement, strength, stability, and mobility. As a multifunctional muscle, it significantly impacts shoulder movement, trunk motion, core stabilization, and respiratory function. Its diverse roles make it a critical component in both functional tasks and athletic performance. Understanding the functions of the Latissimus Dorsi is essential for effective training, rehabilitation, and injury prevention strategies in the upper body.
Shoulder Joint Movements
The Latissimus Dorsi is primarily responsible for several critical movements at the glenohumeral joint:
Scapular Movement
The Latissimus Dorsi aids in scapular motion by pulling on the inferior angle of the scapula, stabilizing it during arm movements to ensure proper alignment and function of the shoulder complex.
Trunk Movement
The Latissimus Dorsi plays a significant role in trunk movement due to its broad attachment on the spinous processes. When the arms are fixed in an overhead position, this muscle assists in moving the trunk forward and upward, which is critical for activities such as:
Assisting Core Stabilization
The muscle assist the core stabilisation, maintaining pelvic alignment and supporting the spine during dynamic movements, such as lifting and twisting.
Respiration
As an accessory respiratory muscle, the Latissimus Dorsi assists with:
Functional Movement
The Latissimus Dorsi is heavily engaged in various everyday activities and athletic movements. Together with the trapezius, it stabilizes the shoulder and supports a wide range of complex arm and upper body movements.
The Core Structure & Function
Mentor Exercise Review
A Mentor Review is a live guided session where you can present exercises, ask questions, and receive individual feedback on your execution, cueing, and reasoning.
Please prepare (at least) one exercise you would like feedback on. Active participation is encouraged to gain the full benefit of the session.
Sessions require a minimum of two participants. If fewer than two students are registered 48 hours in advance, the session will be cancelled.
Mentor Reviews are scheduled based on participant availability. You will receive a confirmation email once your session is finalized.
©KINETICODE® 2025. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
The Spine & Neck – Back Muscles Lectures – Part 2
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
The Spine & Neck – Back Muscles Lectures – Part 1
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
The Pelvis & Posterior Abdominal Wall Lectures –
Part 2
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
The Pelvis & Posterior Abdominal Wall Lectures –
Part 1
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
The Core Structure & Function Lectures – Part 2
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
The Core Structure & Function Lectures – Part 1
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Price of the Course: €2.500
(excl. VAT, reclaimable)
*Prefer a payment plan? Email us at academy@kcmove.nl with a proposal.
Invest in your future as a Pilates professional with Europe-wide recognized certification. This fee gives you full access to a carefully designed 7-month learning journey that blends science, practice, and mentorship.
Your investment includes:
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
The KinetiCode® Pilates Certification follows a 7-month study cycle, designed for maximum flexibility. You can begin at the start of any month and progress at your own pace while completing all required coursework.
In total, the course includes:
Total course time = 250 hours
©KINETICODE® 2026. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
