Gluteus Maximus

Region: Hip & Thigh Muscles · All hip & thigh muscles

Gluteus Maximus at a glance

OriginBack of the ilium behind the posterior gluteal line, sacrum and sacrotuberous ligament
InsertionIliotibial tract (most fibres) and gluteal tuberosity of the femur
ActionsExtends the thigh (rising from sitting, climbing stairs); Rotates the thigh outward; Steadies the pelvis on the femur
Nerve supplyInferior gluteal nerve (L5–S2)

◆ Good to know

The largest muscle in the body by volume; it works hardest when the hip extends against load — standing up, sprinting and climbing.

Please note: This page is an anatomy education summary for students and curious readers, not medical advice. Attachment points are given in their classic short form; individual anatomy varies, and detailed dissection-level descriptions belong in an anatomy atlas.