Muscle Functions

Front

Pectoralis major

Back

Adducts and flexes humerus

Front

Serratus anterior

Back

Pulls scapular anteriorly and downward

Front

Rectus abdominis

Back

Flexes vertebral column

Front

External oblique

Back

Flexes and rotates vertebral column

Front

Internal oblique

Back

Tenses abdominal wall and compresses abdominal contents

Front

Transverses abdominus

Back

Tenses abdominal wall and compresses abdominal contents

Front

Brachioradialis

Back

Flexes forearm at elbow

Front

Extensor carpi radialis longus

Back

Extends wrist and abducts hand

Front

Flexor carpi ulnaris

Back

Extends and adducts wrist

Front

Gluteus medius

Back

Adducts thigh; steadies pelvis during walking