Which muscle group is primarily responsible for hip extension?

The hamstrings are primarily responsible for hip extension because they are located at the back of the thigh and consist of three muscles: the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus. When these muscles contract, they draw the thigh backward, facilitating movement at the hip joint. This action is crucial during activities such as running, walking, and rising from a seated position, where extending the hip is necessary to propel the body forward or upward.

In contrast, other muscle groups listed have different primary functions that do not include hip extension. The quadriceps are mainly responsible for knee extension, playing a significant role in movements involving straightening the leg. The calves, composed mostly of the gastrocnemius and soleus, are essential for ankle movement and stability but do not contribute to hip extension. The adductors are a group of muscles located on the inner thigh, primarily involved in bringing the legs together or stabilizing the pelvis, rather than extending the hip.