Which group of muscles makes up the back portion of the body?

• A. Lateral Chain
• B. Anterior Chain
• C. Core Stabilizers
• D. Posterior Chain

Answer: (D)

The back portion of the body is described by the posterior chain. This group includes the muscles on the backside such as the hip extensors (like the glutes and hamstrings), the spinal extensors (erector spinae), and the upper-back musculature (latissimus dorsi, trapezius, rhomboids, and rear deltoids). They work together to extend the spine, extend the hips, and pull the shoulder blades back and down, which is why they’re grouped as the posterior chain. The other terms refer to different regions: the anterior chain is the front of the body, the lateral chain runs along the sides, and core stabilizers are the deeper trunk muscles that stabilize the spine.