What muscles are used when flapping your arms?

Primary Muscles Used:

- Pectoralis Major: Pulls the arms forward and inward, contributing to the downward motion of the arms during flapping.

- Latissimus Dorsi: Pulls the arms backward and downward, contributing to the upward motion of the arms during flapping.

- Serratus Anterior: Protracts (pulls forward) the shoulder blades, helping to lift the arms during flapping.

Secondary Muscles Used:

- Deltoids (Anterior, Middle, and Posterior): Assist with shoulder flexion, abduction, and extension during flapping.

- Trapezius (Upper, Middle, and Lower): Assist with shoulder elevation, retraction, and depression during flapping.

- Biceps Brachii: Assists with elbow flexion during the downward motion of flapping.

- Triceps Brachii: Assists with elbow extension during the upward motion of flapping.

- Forearm Muscles (Brachioradialis, Supinator, etc.): Assist with wrist and forearm movements during flapping.

It's worth noting that flapping your arms effectively involves coordinated activation of numerous other stabilizer and synergist muscles throughout the body, particularly in the core and lower extremities, to maintain balance and posture during the movement.