Final Answer:
The psoas muscle is responsible for hip flexion, a key movement in lunges. It plays a central role in lifting the leg and stabilizing the hip during the exercise. Thus, the correct answer is option c) Psoas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The psoas muscle, also known as the iliopsoas, is the primary muscle engaged as the prime mover in the lunge exercise. This muscle is crucial for hip flexion, making it essential in movements like lunges where the hip joint is a key player. As you step forward into a lunge, the psoas contracts to lift the leg and stabilize the hip, facilitating the smooth execution of the exercise. While other muscles, such as the quadriceps, are also involved in the lunge, it is the psoas that takes on the role of the primary mover.
Understanding the biomechanics of the lunge helps emphasize the importance of the psoas in this exercise. Proper engagement of the psoas ensures effective and targeted activation of the muscles involved, contributing to strength, stability, and flexibility in the hip region.
Thus, the correct answer is option c) Psoas.