Role of the adductor magnus viewed from its hip extension torque characteristics in different hip joint postures

Abstract

[Purpose] To examine the role of the adductor magnus in terms of extension torque characteristics during squats with the hip joint in different positions. [Subjects and Methods] One healthy man performed a normal squat (NS), with the hips in the mid-position for both abduction and rotation, and a sumo squat (SS), with the hips abducted and externally rotated. Extension torques generated by the adductor magnus and hip extensors were compared between the two hip configurations through estimates made using a musculoskeletal model. [Results] The adductor magnus, gluteus maximus, and long head of the biceps femoris produced greater torques than the semimembranosus and semitendinosus during both NS and SS. [Conclusion] Regardless of hip position in the frontal and horizontal planes, the adductor magnus appears to have the role of an antigravity muscle for movements made in a crouching posture.