Muscles of the Body

Healthy Muscles Matter!

Facts About Muscles

The body has more than 600 musclesMuscles help you move, lift things, pump blood, and help you breatheHealthy muscles let you move freely and keep the body strong

Maintaining Healthy Muscles

Click icon to add picturePhysical activity including walking, jogging, lifting weights, dancing, and playing sportsEat a healthy diet containing a lot of fruit, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and low fatsPrevent injuries by warming up, cooling down, and wearing proper gear

Muscle Function

The main function of muscles is movement by generating force

Body MovementsFlexion and Extension

Flexion: decreases angle between the bones

Extension: increases angle between the bones

Body MovementsAbduction and Adduction

Abduction: move away from the midline

Adduction: move toward the midline

Major Muscles and Muscle Groups

These are muscles that typically benefit from exercise, specifically resistance training.

Trapezius (Traps)

Main function is to stabilize or move the scapula (shoulder blade)

Deltoids

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Responsible for arm movement, particularly elevation and abduction

Pectorals (Major & Minor) (Pecs)

Pecs are responsible for movement of the shoulder joint

Biceps

The biceps supinate the forearm and flex the arm at the elbow

Triceps

Triceps extend the arm at the elbow

Abdominals (Abs)

Click icon to add pictureAbs support posture, bend the trunk, and protect internal organs

Gluteal Muscles(Glutes)

Glutes provide shape of the buttocks and extend and rotate the hip

Quadriceps (Quads)

Extends the leg at the knee and flexes the hip

Hamstrings

Hamstrings flex the leg at the knee and extend the hip

Calves

Calves flex the ankle and curl the toes