Glutes

The gluteus maximus, gluteus medius and gluteus minimus make up the glute muscles or buttocks muscles.

The gluteus maximus is the largest and most superficial of the three gluteal muscles. It makes up a large portion of the shape and appearance of the buttocks. It is a broad and thick fleshy mass of a quadrilateral shape.

The gluteus medius is a wide muscle that acts a pelvic stabilizer. It also helps stabilize the core-body musculature. The gluteus medius is an especially important muscle for any athlete or person who has to make a quick change of direction during activity. Without the gluteus medius, a person has no stabilizing force to help stop the lateral momentum.

The gluteus minimus gives the hips support.

In a normal gait, be it a walk or a sprint, the gluteus maximus drives the legs while the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus supply balance for the femurs (thigh bone). That support, in turn, keeps the entire lower body aligned.