The bridge is a common exercise for gluteus maximus strengthening, but it is one of my favorite exercises to work on core, pelvic floor, and gluteal engagement. This simple exercise can help you to learn to activate the pelvic floor and deep core musculature and utilize these muscles during body movement. The bridge also serves as an excellent core stabilization exercise by requiring controlled segmental spinal mobility as you return your hips to the mat or floor.
With many benefits, the bridge is helpful for just about everyone! Whether you have come to me for post-partum issues, post-knee surgery, or osteoarthritis in the knees/hips/low back, you are probably going to go home with some form of the bridge.
Modifications for the bridge can include semi-reclining with the upper back on a couch or chair to avoid laying on the back. You can also add weight or your child on your lower abdomen to increase the demand of the exercise. Try out the bridge this weekend and leave a comment to let us know how it goes!