Gluteus Maximus
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The strongest, largest muscle in the body; the primary hip extensor and a lateral rotator of the femur.
Detail
The gluteus maximus has the strongest and largest fibers in the body. Its function is hip extension and outward (lateral) rotation of the femur. It is most active when movement between the pelvis and femur goes beyond 15 degrees of extension (e.g., lunges and sprinting) — a handwritten note gives 10–30°. Its upper fibers assist in abduction and its lower fibers assist in adduction. Listed exercises are hip extension, butt blaster, and lunges. The gluteus maximus is one of the antigravity muscles (counteracting buckling at the hip).
Key facts
- Strongest and largest fibers in the body.
- Functions: hip extension; outward (lateral) rotation of the femur.
- Most active beyond 15° of pelvis-femur extension (lunges, sprinting); note 10–30°.
- Upper fibers assist abduction; lower fibers assist adduction.
- Exercises: hip extension, butt blaster, lunges.
Connections
- Hip Extensors — primary group.
- Antigravity Musculature — hip antigravity muscle.
- External Rotation — lateral rotation of the femur.
- Hip Extensions / Butt Blaster / Lunges — training exercises.
Sources
Exercise guides
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Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.