Which muscles are included in the upper leg?

The upper leg primarily consists of the muscles that are crucial for movement and stability in the thigh region. The gluteus maximus is a powerful muscle located in the buttocks that plays a significant role in hip extension and lateral rotation of the hip joint.

The quadriceps group, located at the front of the thigh, is essential for knee extension and plays a vital role during activities like walking, running, and jumping. This group consists of four muscles: the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius.

The hamstrings, located at the back of the thigh, are responsible for knee flexion and hip extension. This group includes three muscles: the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus, which work together to facilitate movements such as running and bending the knee.

The gastrocnemius, while primarily a calf muscle, has its origins in the femur and plays a role in knee flexion and plantarflexion of the ankle. Although it is situated in the lower leg, its functional relationship to the upper leg muscles makes it relevant in discussions regarding the muscles of the thigh.

In summary, option A encompasses the major muscle groups