During the ankle strategy in forward sway, which set of muscles is engaged?

• A. Anterior Tibialis, Quadriceps, Abs
• B. Gastrocs, Hamstrings, Paraspinals
• C. Hip Flexors, Abs
• D. Hip Extensors, Paraspinals

Answer: (B)

When sway is moving the body forward, the ankle strategy works by pushing the lower leg into plantarflexion to pull the body back over the feet. The primary movers are the calf muscles, especially the gastrocnemius, and, as needed, nearby muscles step in to support with proximal control. The hamstrings and paraspinals contribute to extending the hips and trunk to help keep the center of mass over the base of support as the correction progresses. That combination—calf plantarflexors with the hamstrings and paraspinals—fits the ankle strategy for forward sway best. The other options either use muscles that would move you in the wrong direction or omit the needed distal-to-proximal sequence.