Challenge Your Exam Readiness With Our Free MBLEx Practice Questions

Kinesiologic analysis of functional tasks appears on the MBLEx. Rising from a deep squat requires powerful hip extension and knee extension. The gluteus maximus is the primary hip extensor, especially active from flexed positions, providing substantial torque to extend the femur relative to the pelvis. The hamstrings assist but also cross the knee, where their biarticular nature can reduce hip extension moment as the knee extends. Rectus femoris (A) is a hip flexor and knee extensor; it does not extend the hip. Tensor fasciae latae (C) contributes to hip flexion/abduction/internal rotation, not extension. Iliopsoas (D) is a strong hip flexor. Understanding prime movers and synergists informs targeted soft-tissue strategies for clients with hip or low-back complaints—e.g., addressing gluteal activation deficits, balancing anterior chain tightness (hip flexors) that may inhibit posterior chain performance, and considering lumbopelvic stability during movement. This functional perspective supports assessment-driven treatment goals and home care recommendations.