Adductor magnus

Schematic anatomy
Deep layerAdductor magnus

Quadriceps

Rectus femorisVastus lateralisVastus medialisVastus intermedius

Hamstrings

Biceps femorisSemitendinosusSemimembranosus

Glutes

Gluteus maximusGluteus mediusGluteus minimus

Adductors

Adductor longusAdductor brevisAdductor magnusGracilisPectineus

Hip flexors

Psoas majorIliacusTensor fasciae lataeSartorius

Hip rotators

PiriformisObturator internusObturator externusSuperior gemellusInferior gemellusQuadratus femoris

Calves

GastrocnemiusSoleus

Shins & ankles

Tibialis anteriorTibialis posteriorFibularis longus & brevisExtensor digitorum longusExtensor hallucis longusFlexor digitorum longusFlexor hallucis longus

Feet

Abductor hallucisFlexor hallucis brevisAdductor hallucisFlexor digitorum brevisQuadratus plantaeFoot interossei & lumbricalsAbductor digiti minimiExtensor digitorum & hallucis brevis
Movement guide

Adductor magnus

Large medial-thigh muscle with adductor fibers and a hip-extending hamstring portion.

Hip hinges involve the hip-extending portion; adduction exercises load the adductor portion.

01

Side-lying hip adduction

Hip adduction · Bodyweight

Also works

Other adductors, gracilis

How to perform

Lie on your side with the top leg crossed in front for support. Lift the straight lower leg a short distance, then lower.

Keep the pelvis steady and the lower knee facing forward.

Example volume · 2 sets × 10–15 / side

02

Romanian deadlift

Compound · Barbell

Also works

Hamstrings, gluteus maximus; spinal extensors stabilize

How to perform

With soft knees, push your hips back and keep the bar near your legs. Stop when you reach your controlled hinge depth, then stand.

Move at the hips while maintaining a steady back position.

Example volume · 3 sets × 6–10 reps

Referenceswww.orthoinfo.org

Community draft · awaiting expert review