Quads

Quads (Quadriceps Femoris)

The quad muscles, or quadriceps femoris, are a group of four large muscles located at the front of your thigh. This group collectively contains more mass than any other muscle group in your body. The four individual muscles are the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius. They originate from the pelvis and femur (thigh bone) and insert into the patella (kneecap) via the quadriceps tendon, which then continues as the patellar ligament to the tibia (shin bone).

The primary function of the quadriceps muscles is to straighten the knee, which is essential for movements such as kicking, running, jumping, and walking. The rectus femoris, being the only quad muscle that crosses both the hip and knee joints, also contributes to hip flexion (lifting the knee). These muscles are crucial for mobility, balance, and power in the lower body.