Whittle explains that human gait is designed to minimize vertical displacement of the Center of Mass (CoM). A bouncing head is inefficient. The six determinants are:
| Phase | Primary Muscles | Action | |-------|----------------|--------| | | Quadriceps (eccentric), Gluteus maximus, Anterior tibialis | Control knee flexion, stabilize hip, foot flat | | Midstance | Soleus, Gastrocnemius (eccentric), Gluteus medius | Control tibial advancement, pelvic stability | | Terminal Stance | Gastrocnemius, Soleus (concentric) | Push-off, plantarflexion | | Pre-swing | Rectus femoris, Adductors | Limb advancement preparation | | Initial Swing | Iliopsoas, Tibialis anterior | Hip flexion, foot clearance | | Mid/terminal swing | Hamstrings | Limb deceleration | Gait Analysis An Introduction Michael W Whittle