Which motor strategy is characterized by the quick lowering of the center of mass, as seen in surfing-like motions?

• A. Hip strategy
• B. Stepping strategy
• C. Suspension strategy
• D. Weight shift strategy

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how people control balance by changing the vertical position of the body’s center of mass. Quickly lowering the center of mass happens in a suspension strategy. By bending the knees and hips rapidly, you drop your body down, which lowers the COM and makes the system more stable against the perturbation—much like surfers who crouch low to ride a wave and absorb its forces. This approach directly reduces the height you're working from, which is why it fits surfing-like motions.

In contrast, other strategies either move the body without lowering height (hip strategy shifts the trunk, weight-shift strategy transfers weight between feet) or adjust the base of support by taking a step (stepping strategy). Those do not emphasize a rapid vertical drop of the center of mass.