Leg muscles

The term leg muscles covers a whole range of different areas, from the top of your thing down to your ankles. The main leg muscles are listed below, along with a short summary of which exercises utilise them.

The main leg muscles are as follows:

• QUADRICEPS: These are on the front of the thigh, and are primarily used to straighten the leg. Main exercises include: Squats, Leg Press, Lunges, Leg Extensions, Step Ups.
  
  
• ILLIOPSOAS: These connect the lower spine and hip to the top of the thigh. They help to lift the leg to the front. Exercises: Squats, Leg Press, Lunges, Step Ups
  
  
• ADDUCTORS: A group on the inside of the thigh which help move the leg towards the middle of the body. Exercises: Side Lunges, also assist in Wide Stance Squats.
  
  
• HAMSTRINGS: Located on the rear of the thigh, this group help to curl the lower leg up towards the upper leg. Exercises: Squats, Lunges, Leg Curls.
  
  
• GASTROCNEMIUS and SOLEUS: Found on the rear of the lower leg, used to point the foot downwards. Exercises: Calf Raises, Skipping, Step Ups.
  
  
• TIBIALIS ANTERIOR: Lying mainly on the front of the lower leg, used to lift the foot upwards. Exercises: Skipping, Step Ups.