Which muscle groups contract to laterally rotate the thigh at the hip joint in standing?

The gluteus maximus and external rotators are primarily responsible for laterally rotating the thigh at the hip joint while standing. The gluteus maximus, one of the strongest muscles in the body, plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis and facilitating movements such as hip extension and external rotation.

In addition to the gluteus maximus, a group of muscles known as the lateral rotators of the hip—comprising the piriformis, gemellus superior, gemellus inferior, obturator internus, and quadratus femoris—also contributes to this motion. Together, these muscles work synergistically to achieve lateral rotation of the thigh when standing.

Understanding the anatomy and function of these muscles is essential for recognizing their role in movements and exercises that involve external rotation of the hips, which is a fundamental component in Pilates and other forms of physical training.

The other muscle groups mentioned in the options do not primarily facilitate lateral hip rotation. While the tensor fascia lata (TFL) can assist in hip stabilization and some motion, it does not predominantly contribute to lateral rotation. The adductors and gracilis primarily function to adduct the thigh, and although they can assist with some rotation, they do not play a significant