What is the primary cue for maintaining form in the Shoulder Bridge exercise?

The primary cue for maintaining form in the Shoulder Bridge exercise is to keep a consistent height of the pelvis. This cue focuses on stabilizing the pelvis throughout the movement, which is crucial for ensuring that the spine remains in a neutral position and that the core muscles are engaged effectively. By focusing on the pelvis's height, practitioners can prevent excessive arching of the lower back and avoid collapsing the pelvis, which can lead to improper alignment and potentially result in injury.

Maintaining a stable pelvis allows for correct alignment and controlled movement of the legs and upper body. It also emphasizes the essential role of the glutes and hamstrings in the exercise, as they are responsible for lifting the pelvis and maintaining stability.

In contrast, raising both legs high may alter the center of gravity and compromise the alignment of the pelvis and spine, leading to a lack of control during the exercise. Flexing the knees tightly could also detract from the focus on pelvic stability, as it may create unnecessary tension in the legs rather than promoting engagement of the core and glutes. Extending the arms overhead can shift the body’s balance and places additional demands on shoulder stability, which may distract from the primary goal of maintaining pelvic height and overall core engagement.