Besides being the name of the Roman athlete in the adventures of Asterix at the olympics, the Gluteus maximus is known for being our largest gluteal muscle, a powerful hip extensor, external rotator and abductor. But it is more…
Image is from 3D4Medical’s EssentialAnatomy5.
THE GLUTEUS MAXIMUS IS PART OF THE POSTERIOR OBLIQUE SLING
The Gluteus maximus is part of a myofascial line called the posterior oblique sling. As such it transmits biomechanical forces between the lower and upper body during walking and running.
BACK PAIN MAY BE CAUSED BY INHIBITED GLUTEI MUSCLES
Inhibited glutei muscles may cause sacroiliac joint dysfunctions and disorganise the lumbar vertebrae.
Furthermore, a rule of biomechanics is that when a muscle doesn’t work, another muscle or muscle group tries to compensate. Therefore inhibited glutei muscles can also lead to tightness or pain further up along the posterior oblique sling, sometimes all the way up to the shoulder.
LEARN YOUR MUSCLE FIRING SEQUENCE
In the yoga pose Shalabasana (locust pose), rather than lifting the legs and arms simultaneously try the following:
– As you are lying on your front, palpate your right gluteus maximus (1);
– Extend your right hip a little, do not lift your chest yet;
– Take your hip down, now palpate the area in your lower back (2); lift your hip again;
– Try to determine where you feel the initial muscle activation;
– Repeat on the other side.
THE GLUTEUS MAXIMUS SHOULD FIRE FIRST
If you feel that the muscles in your lower back fire before your gluteus maximus, it is possible that your gluteus maximus is inhibited.
During a Rolfing session we work to re-establish balance between muscle groups and myofascial lines so that your glutei muscles regain functionality.
In addition you can refine your yoga practice by learning your muscle firing sequence.
Enjoy your practice!