ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary function of the hamstrings at the knee joint?

1. Extension

2. Flexion

3. Hyperextension

4. Adduction

The correct answer is: Flexion

The primary function of the hamstrings at the knee joint is flexion. The hamstrings, which are a group of three muscles located at the back of the thigh (the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus), play a crucial role in bending the knee. When these muscles contract, they pull the lower leg backward, resulting in knee flexion. This action is vital for various movements such as running, walking, and jumping, as it aids in the propulsion and stabilization of the leg during these activities. In contrast, extension is the action that straightens the knee, which is primarily performed by the quadriceps muscles at the front of the thigh. Hyperextension refers to extending the knee beyond its normal range of motion and is not primarily associated with the hamstring muscles. Adduction involves moving a limb toward the midline of the body, which is not a function of the hamstrings. Thus, recognizing the specific role of the hamstrings in knee flexion is essential for understanding their contribution to lower limb movements and overall biomechanics.