Quads Fitness
What are the Quadriceps?
Often called "quads", the quadriceps
is a large muscle group, stretching from hip to knee, which makes up the
front of the thigh. As the name suggests, it comprises four muscles: rectus
femoris (the big muscle that runs down the center of the thigh), vastus
lateralis (a large muscle running down the outer thigh), vastus intermedius
(inner thigh) and vastus medialis (a smaller muscle just above the knee).
The quads are connected by a common tendon close to the knee.
What is the Function of the Quadriceps?
The main function of these muscles is to
extend and straighten the leg, so the quadriceps are important for cycling,
swimming, running, jumping, sprinting, throwing - in fact, virtually every
athletic movement that involves the coordination of upper and lower body
muscles.
Quadriceps Strengthening Exercise
Working the quadriceps muscles is an important
feature of most strength training programs. Most exercise routines that
involve extending or straightening the leg will work the quads - the three
most common quadriceps exercises being the squat, the leg press and the
knee extension. Most exercises that work the quads develop all four muscles
equally. Cycling and jumping are also effective workouts for developing
thigh-strength, including the quadriceps muscles.
How to Work the Quadriceps?
For information and advice about working
these large thigh muscles, see: Lunges,
Extensions, Squats
and Quadriceps Exercises.
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