Rectus femoris muscle

One of the muscles on the front of your thighs, the rectus femoris makes up one part of the large, fleshy group of leg muscles called the quadriceps.

The rectus femoris muscle is connected to the hip, and helps extend or raise the knee. This muscle is also used to contract the thigh. The rectus femoris is the only muscle that can flex the hip. This strong, important muscle is used when running, jumping and kicking something.