Lesson 14: The Gluteus Maximus, Gluteus Medius, Gluteus Minimus, and Piriformis

There are 3 gluteal muscles:

• Gluteus maximus
• Gluteus medius
• Gluteus minimus

The gluteal muscles play a crucial role in hip joint movement, particularly in extension and abduction. Among these, the gluteus maximus is the largest muscle in the human body by mass, followed by the smaller gluteus medius and the smallest, the gluteus minimus. The gluteus maximus is the most superficial of the three muscles, but a portion of the gluteus medius is also visible near the lateral (side) aspect of the hip. In contrast, the gluteus minimus lies deeper, positioned beneath the gluteus medius and the iliotibial (IT) band, extending both laterally (to the side) and anteriorly (to the front) of the hip joint. It’s important to note that the gluteus minimus is not located at the bottom of the buttock—a misconception perpetuated by an inaccurate but widely circulated illustration.

This course also explores the piriformis muscle, a key contributor to femur movement at the hip joint. The piriformis crosses the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) and is one of the "deep rotators of the hip," located beneath the gluteus maximus. Its primary function is hip external rotation, but it may also assist in horizontal abduction of the hip.

Sports medicine professionals—including personal trainers, fitness instructors, physical therapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, occupational therapists, and athletic trainers—must have a thorough understanding of the gluteal muscles. This knowledge is essential for analyzing human movement, designing advanced exercise programs, and creating effective therapeutic or rehabilitation interventions. For instance, physical therapists often address gluteus medius weakness, gluteal muscle strains, or, in rare cases, gluteus minimus tears. Strength coaches typically prioritize gluteus maximus and gluteus medius training to enhance function and athletic performance. Future courses will provide detailed techniques for addressing piriformis and gluteus minimus trigger points as well as activating and strengthening the gluteus medius and gluteus maximus.

Pre-approved Credits for:

• Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Certification

Pre-approved for Continuing Education Credits for:

• Athletic Trainers
• Chiropractors
• Group Exercise Instructors
• Massage Therapists
• Occupational Therapists - Introductory
• Personal Trainers
• Physical Therapists
• Physical Therapy Assistants
• Yoga Instructors

This Course Includes:

• AI Tutor
• Video Lecture
• Study Guide
• Text of Material
• Learning Activities
• Practice Exam
• Pre-approved Final Exam

Caption: The glute max and glute med on the back side of the body

Bibliography

1. Donald A. Neumann, “Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System: Foundations of Rehabilitation – 2nd Edition” © 2012 Mosby, Inc.
2. Tom Myers, Anatomy Trains: Second Edition. © Elsevier Limited 2009
3. David G. Simons, Janet Travell, Lois S. Simons, Travell & Simmons’ Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction, The Trigger Point Manual, Volume 1. Upper Half of Body: Second Edition,© 1999 Williams and Wilkens
4. Cynthia C. Norkin, D. Joyce White, Measurement of Joint Motion: A Guide to Goniometry – Third Edition. © 2003 by F.A. Davis Company
5. Cynthia C. Norkin, Pamela K. Levangie, Joint Structure and Function: A Comprehensive Analysis: Fifth Edition © 2011 F.A. Davis Company
6. Carolyn Richardson, Paul Hodges, Julie Hides. Therapeutic Exercise for Lumbo Pelvic Stabilization – A Motor Control Approach for the Treatment and Prevention of Low Back Pain: 2nd Edition (c) Elsevier Limited, 2004
7. Andrew Biel, Trail Guide to the Human Body: 4th Edition, © 2010
8. David B. Jenkins, Hollinshead’s Functional Anatomy of the Limbs and Back: Eighth Edition © 2002 Saunders
9. John V. Basmajian, Carlo J. De Luca. Muscles Alive: Their Function Revealed by ElectroMyography. 1985