Legs

 Quadriceps: The large group of muscles on the front of the upper leg, often referred to as the thighs. Your quadriceps are so named because they are a group of four (quad = four) different muscles: the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedialis. The quadriceps run along the front of the thigh, starting at the hip joint and ending at the knee joint. The quadriceps' primary function is to flex the hip and extend the knee, very important in walking, running, jumping, climbing, and pedaling.

Hamstrings: The group of muscles on the back side of the leg, running from the hip joint to the knee joint. The hamstrings are a group of three muscles: biceps femoris, semimembranosus, and semitendinosus. The hamstrings' primary function is to facilitate flexion of the leg, and medial and lateral rotation, which is important in activities such as jumping, pedaling, walking, and running.

Calves: Groups of muscles farther down the back of the leg running from the backside of the knee to the Achilles tendon. The two muscles that make up the calves are the gastrocnemius and soleus. Their primary function is to extend your foot at the ankle and flex your toes, which helps you jump, walk/run, and pedal.

Anterior Tibialis: The small muscle group on the front side of your lower leg which runs along your shins. The anterior tibialis, like the calf, helps you run and jump, and functions to flex your foot upward.

Below is a list of the most effective strength-training exercises for your legs (quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and anterior tibialis). Included with each exercise is the specific muscle group/s worked, a fitness instruction and thorough explanation of how to do each exercise, common mistakes you should avoid, and a list of alternate exercises that work the same muscle group. Also, to assure safety and effectiveness, those exercises that are advanced, that require the use of a weightlifting belt, or that require a spotter are so indicated.

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