Ruben Luijkx, Master of Science and co-owner of Fysio Fitaal, specialises in sports-related complaints, ultrasound diagnostics and manual therapy. Writing on physiofitaal.nl, he introduces you to the expertise and professionalism of Fysio Fitaal in Tilburg.
Glute bridge
The glute bridge is an exercise in which you lift the hips from the supine position by actively tightening the glutes. During the movement, the shoulders stay on the ground while the pelvis moves up in a controlled manner until the body forms a straight line from knees to shoulders.
The exercise mainly focuses on strengthening the glutes and improving hip stability. In addition, the glute bridge helps develop good hip extension, which is important for movements such as walking, jumping and lifting.
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Purpose of the exercise
Focuses on strengthening the glutes and hamstrings. Improves hip extension strength and pelvic stability. Supports a stable torso and correct hip movement patterns.
Supplies
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Mat or comfortable surface
Starting position
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Lie supine on a mat
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Place feet hip-width apart on the floor
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Knees bent
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Arms along the body
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Core slightly tightened
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Pelvis in neutral position
Implementation
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Actively tighten the glutes
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Push the hips up in a controlled way
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Bring the body in a straight line from knees to shoulders
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Briefly hold tension in the upper position
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Lower the hips slowly and in a controlled manner
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Return to start position
Points of interest
✓ Actively tighten the glutes
✓ Keep the pelvis stable
✓ Core slightly tightened
✓ Move controlled
✓ Push up through the heels
✗ Hollowing the lower back
✗ Sinking hips askew
✗ Execution too fast
✗ Drop knees inwards
✗ Ignoring pain in hip or lower back
When this exercise?
The glute bridge is used to improve strength and activation of the glute muscles. The exercise is suitable within strength training and is often used within rehabilitation programmes where hip stability and pelvic control are important.
In addition, the exercise can serve as a preparatory step towards more complex hip exercises such as hip thrusts, lunges or deadlift variations. Through variations in execution, the load can easily be adjusted to the athlete's level. Application, load and progression should always take place in consultation with a physiotherapist or other qualified professional to ensure the exercise is safe and tailored to the individual's load capacity, symptoms and recovery status.
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