What type of muscle is used when a person takes leisurely walk?

When someone is taking a leisurely walk, they are primarily using slow twitch muscles, also known as type I muscle fibers. These muscles provide sustained, low-power contractions and are well-suited for endurance activities like walking, jogging, and long-distance running.

* Slow twitch muscle fibers: These muscles have a high density of mitochondria, which produce energy for muscle contractions. They also contain more oxygen-binding protein, which allows them to use oxygen more efficiently. Slow twitch muscles are resistant to fatigue and can maintain contractions for a longer duration. Due to their reliance on oxidative metabolism, they generate less fatigue over time.

During leisurely walking, the main muscles involved include:

1. Quadriceps (front of the thighs): These muscles extend the knee and help lift the leg forward during each step.

2. Hamstrings (back of the thighs): These muscles flex the knee and help extend the hip during each step.

3. Gluteal muscles (buttocks): These muscles extend the hip and contribute to maintaining an upright posture.

4. Calf muscles (back of the lower leg): These muscles flex the ankle, helping propel the body forward during each step.

While you are walking, slow-twitch muscle fibers are predominantly engaged, allowing for an efficient use of energy and oxygen to carry out the sustained, low-intensity movement of leisurely walking.