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Anatomy
Anatomy
Gracilis
Evidence-grounded — sourced from Fysiqal's fitness knowledge graph· 1 min read
hiphip-adductorgracilistwo-joint-muscleknee-flexor
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In one line
The only 2-joint hip adductor; a weak adductor and knee flexor that the body can do without.
Detail
The gracilis is the only 2-joint muscle of all the adductor muscles and is also a knee flexor. It is a weak adductor, and under normal living one can live without it (it can be used as a surgical transplant). As a 2-joint muscle, the gracilis limits hip abduction (hip abduction ROM is 45 degrees, limited by the 2-joint gracilis muscle). The gracilis is also listed as a weak knee flexor (along with the sartorius).
Key facts
- Only 2-joint muscle among the hip adductors; also a knee flexor.
- Weak adductor; functionally expendable; usable as a transplant.
- The 2-joint gracilis limits hip abduction to 45°.
Connections
- hip-adductors — group it belongs to.
- hip-joint-rom — limits hip abduction.
- hamstrings — weak knee flexor alongside sartorius.
SourceReference manual
p.36p.592p.684
Cited authorities in source: Yessis (1992).
Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.
Explore related topics
Atlas Connections
HamstringsClosely related
Three 2-joint muscles — biceps femoris, semitendinosus, semimembranosus — that flex the knee (primary) and extend the hip (secondary); knee-flexion ROM 125°.Hip AdductorsClosely related
The hip adductors are the pectineus, adductor brevis, adductor longus, adductor magnus, and gracilis.Hip Joint Range of Motion
Hip flexion 90° (knee extended) to 120° (up to 135°, knee flexed); hyperextension 10–30°; adduction 30°; abduction 45°; medial rotation 30–45°; lateral rotation 45–60°.Two-Joint (2-Joint) Muscles
Muscles crossing two joints generate the greatest force when not required to shorten over both joints simultaneously; stabilize one joint when training them.