Which muscles are included in the quadriceps group?

The quadriceps group is primarily composed of four muscles, all located at the front of the thigh and responsible for extending the knee. Among these muscles, the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris are key components.

The vastus lateralis is the largest muscle of the quadriceps, situated on the outer thigh, and plays a crucial role in knee extension and stabilization during activities like walking and running. The rectus femoris, often recognized as the most central muscle of the group, also assists in hip flexion due to its origin at the hip. Together, these muscles contribute significantly not only to knee movement but also to athletic performance and daily activities.

The other choices represent different groups of muscles that do not belong to the quadriceps. The sartorius and adductors are part of the hip and thigh region but serve completely different functions. The gastrocnemius and soleus form the calf and are involved in ankle movement rather than knee extension. Similarly, the levator scapulae and trapezius are skeletal muscles located in the neck and upper back, primarily affecting shoulder and neck movements. Understanding the specific muscles that comprise the quadriceps group helps in recognizing their roles in both biomechanics and targeted strength training programs.