When it comes to pelvic and core health, many people assume that all we need to focus on is the pelvic floor and core muscles. But that would be a mistake. The most important muscles that stabilize the pelvis itself are the glutes. We definitely need them to be on their game for optimal pelvic health.
Although many people think that they are just fine in this category, I actually find it to be the rare patient that is not in need of some glute retraining or strength work. And surprisingly, many people have glutes that are actually pretty asleep on the job and cannot even activate fully with maximum focus on these muscles! And it shockingly happens with competitive athletes as well as soccer moms and dads. This is one issue that seems to affect anyone at any age.
Over the last dozen or so years, I have actually been using a specific test with my patients to see just how awake their glutes are. The test can also be turned into an exercise to improve how well the glutes are activating and progress at home. Today, I am sharing this test with you via a youtube video that I recorded previously. And there are actually 2 additional videos that I am linking here as well, so that you can go on to progress the exercise if you would like.
If you have been a patient of mine in the past, you will know this test. But you may not have seen what I show for progression in part 2 and 3. So go ahead and check them out! The first video is under 5 minutes due to me explaining it a bit, and videos 2 and 3 are 2 minutes.
So check them out and see if YOU can pass my glute test! Healthy glutes can make the difference in pelvic health, back pain, knee pain, hip pain, and more.
Video 1: Glute Test:
Video 2: Glute Test Progression Part 1:
Video 3: Glute Test Progression Part 2:
If you have any questions about these videos, you can reach out to us to schedule a consult or evaluation. Remember that these videos are for educational purposes and NOT meant to replace actual in person medical help from a physical therapist.
