Muscle Groups Lower Body

Gluteus Maximus Location: Buttocks Function: Climbing stairs, walking, standing up Exercise to Strengthen it: Squat, leg press Notes: Made up of several muscles. The largest muscle in the body is the gluteus maximus. Daily uses Extension phase of walking upstairs

Hamstring Location: Back of upper lower leg Function: Walking Exercise to Strengthen it: Lunges, squats, leg press Notes: The hamstrings are made up of three muscles. Don't squat below 90 degrees, otherwise you could damage your knees. Daily uses Bending the knee to step over something

Quadriceps Location: Thigh – front Function: Climbing stairs, walking, standing up Exercise to Strengthen it: Squats, lunges, leg presses Notes: The quads are made up of four muscles. Daily uses Kicking

Gastrocnemius Location: Back of lower leg Function: Push off for walking, standing on tiptoes Exercise to Strengthen it: Lunges Notes: The gastrocnemius give your legs a rounded shape. Daily uses Standing on tip toes