What are the leg muscles?

Leg muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles, among others, are crucial for various reasons related to health.1, 2, 3
The variations of leg muscle groups and their functions are diverse:
1) Quadriceps – These muscles, located at the front of the thigh, are primary movers in knee extension and play a role in hip flexion.
2) Hamstrings – They run along the back of the thigh and are involved in knee flexion and hip extension.
3) Calf muscles – The gastrocnemius and soleus contribute to ankle flexion and play a role in pushing the body forward during walking and running.1
Why are leg muscles so important?

The leg muscles are a key element for locomotion and physical activity. They work together to produce movements like walking, running, jumping, and squatting. Strong leg muscles can improve balance, stabilise the joints, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance athletic performance.2

How to keep your leg muscles in good shape?

To enhance leg muscle health, you can start with the following steps:
1) Begin with resistance training for the legs to increase muscle size and strength.2
2) Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, and leg presses that target major leg muscle groups.
3) Include dynamic activities such as walking or cycling that can help improve the leg muscles’ endurance and strength.4
4) Consider cross-training with activities like yoga or Pilates to promote balance and flexibility in the leg muscles.3
5) Ensure you allow adequate rest and recovery between workout sessions.
If you have existing health conditions or are new to exercise, it may be beneficial to consult with a fitness professional to ensure your workout program is safe and effective.