A groin strain happens when one or more of the muscles on the inside of the thigh are overstretched or torn. These muscles are called the hip adductors, and they help move your leg toward the center of your body. They also help stabilize your pelvis during walking, running, jumping and side-to-side movement. Groin strains are common in athletes, but they can happen to anyone. You may strain your groin during sports, exercise, heavy lifting, a slip, a sudden change in directio