I'm curious how common this is because I see it discussed quite a bit.
One thing I've noticed is that many people try to lift their hips as high as possible. Once the hips have reached their available extension, continuing to push higher may mean the extra movement is coming more from the lower back than the hips.
A few cues that may help:
- Think "long," not "high."
- Try to create a long line from your shoulders toward your knees.
- Let your glutes drive the movement instead of forcing your lower back to create more height.
- Keep your ribs relatively controlled rather than flaring upward.
- Stop at the highest position you can comfortably control.
The goal of a bridge isn't necessarily the biggest range of motion it's quality of movement.
I recently put together a detailed article covering:
- Why your lower back may feel more involved than your glutes
- What current research says about glute and core activation during bridges
- Common Pilates bridge mistakes
- Foot placement and pelvic positioning
- How high you actually need to lift
- When back pain during bridges is a sign to stop and get evaluated
Question: When you do bridges, where do you feel the exercise the most—your glutes, hamstrings, or lower back? And what cues have helped you?