Hamstring Muscle Anatomy: Origin, Insertion & Function

🔔 Subscribe for expert fitness insights! Welcome to the NASM-CPT Podcast with Rick Richey, Emmy Award winner and your guide to the latest in functional anatomy, fitness education, and corrective exercise strategies. In this episode, Rick takes you on an engaging, easy-to-understand exploration of the hamstring muscles – perfect for personal trainers, corrective exercise specialists, and anyone serious about fitness optimization.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Hamstring Muscle Breakdown: Discover the three key hamstring muscles (semimembranosus, semitendinosus, and biceps femoris), their origins, insertions, and joint actions.
• Functional Anatomy Explained: Get a practical definition and real-world application of functional anatomy, including concentric, eccentric, and isometric contractions.
• Medial & Lateral Hamstrings: The “semi-sisters” vs. biceps femoris, plus easy mnemonics for remembering anatomy.
• Common Imbalances & Corrections: Hear how to spot and correct overactive lateral hamstrings (biceps femoris) and underactive medial hamstrings using targeted corrective exercises.
• Practical Fitness Tips: Learn Rick’s “diamond curls” technique and active hamstring stretches to address muscle imbalances and improve knee stability.
• Fun Etymology & Anatomy Facts: Enjoy Rick’s memorable stories, easy visuals, and clear explanations to make anatomy stick.

Why Watch?

• Perfect for NASM students, CPTs, CES specialists, and fitness enthusiasts.
• Boosts your understanding of anatomy for safer, smarter workouts.
• Learn corrective exercise strategies for better client outcomes.
• Practical tips you can use immediately in your training or teaching.

• Hamstring etymology and history
• Muscle origins and insertions with visual mnemonics
• Joint actions: what hamstrings do and stabilize
• Corrective exercise application: step-by-step protocols
• Real-life stories for memorable learning

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The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

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