AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

The iliopsoas muscles, which consist of the psoas major and iliacus, primarily function to flex the hip joint. This action is crucial for a variety of movements, such as walking, running, and climbing stairs, as it allows for the lifting of the thigh towards the body. The strength and flexibility of the iliopsoas are essential for maintaining efficient hip mobility and overall lower body mechanics.

This group of muscles is located deep within the pelvis, and they play a key role in stabilizing the lumbar spine while facilitating hip motion. When the iliopsoas contracts, it pulls the femur upward, effectively creating hip flexion, which is why its primary function is associated with this movement.

In contrast to other options, the iliopsoas does not primarily stabilize the knee joint, extend the hip joint, or rotate the thigh, even though they may contribute in minor ways to those actions under certain conditions. Understanding the specific role of the iliopsoas in hip flexion highlights its importance in functional movement patterns and athletic performance.