#12 LEG MUSCLES USED WHEN WE RUN Nearly all the leg muscles are used in running. By strengthening each group, you will improve your running form (and thus become more efficient - same effort more pace, less injuries) and balance. As you move your leg forward, you use mainly the quadricep muscles at the front of your thigh. They contract and bend your hip and straighten your knee. The quads also stabilize the knee and help absorb the shock of impact as you land. As your body moves forward, the action switches to your hamstrings, the muscles at the back of your thigh, which contract and straighten your hip and begin to bend your knee. The hamstrings also work to help you lift your knee behind you. At the same time, the muscles of your lower leg, the soleus (inner calf) and gastrocnemius (outer calf) extend and flex each foot as you land and push off. These muscles also help absorb impact and give your stride spring.
Posted on: Thu, 25 Jul 2013 15:40:08 +0000