ACE Group Fitness Instructor Practice Exam

Squats primarily target the gluteus maximus and the hamstrings, making this the correct answer. The gluteus maximus is the largest muscle in the buttocks and plays a crucial role in hip extension, which is essential during the squatting motion. As you lower into a squat and push back up, the glutes engage to drive the movement. The hamstrings, located at the back of the thigh, also play a significant role in stabilizing the knees and hips during squats. They assist in the movement from a flexed position (squatting down) to an extended one (standing up). While other muscle groups do engage during a squat, such as the quadriceps, calves, and core stabilizers, the main focus is indeed on the gluteus maximus and hamstrings. Understanding the primary muscle activation during various exercises helps in structuring effective workout routines and ensuring balanced muscle development.