Determining the "thickest" muscle is challenging because "thick" can refer to either volume or cross-sectional area. Different sources focus on different aspects of muscle size, leading to varied answers. However, considering the available information, several strong candidates emerge.
Contenders for Thickest Muscle:
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Gluteus Maximus: This is the largest muscle in the human body by volume. The gluteus maximus is the main extensor muscle of the hip and a powerful muscle involved in many movements (Livescience, 2023). Its significant size and thickness make it a leading contender for the title of thickest.
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Pectoralis Major: Described as a "thick, fan-shaped muscle" (NCBI, 2024), the pectoralis major is the largest muscle of the anterior chest wall. While its thickness might not exceed that of the gluteus maximus in all individuals, its substantial size and density place it among the contenders.
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Latissimus Dorsi ("Lats"): Often cited as the largest muscle by surface area (Healthline, 2019; Davies, 2023), the latissimus dorsi, while expansive, may not necessarily be the thickest in terms of cross-sectional area compared to the gluteus maximus or pectoralis major.
Clarification on "Strongest" vs. "Thickest":
It's crucial to differentiate between the thickest muscle and the strongest muscle. While size often correlates with strength, it is not the sole determining factor. Many sources claim the masseter (jaw muscle) as the strongest muscle relative to its weight (Library of Congress, 2019; MedicineNet, 2024; Wonderopolis, 2024). This highlights the importance of considering the definition of "thickest" before arriving at a conclusion.
Conclusion:
Based on descriptions of muscle size and volume from reputable sources, the gluteus maximus is arguably the thickest muscle in the human body. The pectoralis major is a close contender, and the latissimus dorsi is large but may not have the same cross-sectional thickness.
