What muscle group is primarily engaged during the terminal swing phase?

During the terminal swing phase of gait, the hamstrings are primarily engaged to decelerate the leg and prepare for heel strike. As the leg moves forward, the hamstrings play a crucial role in slowing down the knee extension to prevent the leg from extending too quickly or too far. This action helps ensure that the foot lands at the optimal angle and position, which is vital for maintaining balance and stability during gait.

Furthermore, hamstring muscles also assist in controlling the position of the pelvis and hip as the knee prepares to flex for the foot to come down. The coordinated action of the hamstrings during this phase is essential for a smooth transition into the stance phase of walking.

While other muscle groups like the quadriceps are active in various phases of walking, they are more involved in knee extension during the loading response rather than deceleration in terminal swing. The calf muscles assist with propulsion during the push-off phase, and the gluteals are more involved in hip stabilization and extension during the earlier stages of gait.