My Number One Recommended Exercise for Hip Health: The ATG Split Squat
The ATG split squat is an exercise popularized by Ben Patrick of the ATG system, used to restore knee function and reduce pain. It’s also highly beneficial for low back and hip health since it targets tight hip flexors that can lead to compensatory spinal flexion. Additionally, the exercise develops unilateral strength, fixes imbalances, and can be performed anywhere. For maximum benefits and safety, proper progressions should be followed. The couch stretch is an intense but effective way to stretch hip flexors, address left/right asymmetries, and alleviate back and hip pain.
Why You Should Lift Weights: Lift More, Live More
As Ronnie Coleman once said, “Everybody wants to be a bodybuilder, but don’t nobody wants to lift no heavy ass weights.” However, lifting weights doesn’t mean you have to be a bodybuilder. It’s an investment in your health, and just 30-60 minutes of appropriate resistance training per week can help increase muscle mass, slow aging, and shield you from injury and sickness. Resistance training can also help fight sarcopenia, the progressive loss of muscle or adverse muscle changes that accrue over a lifetime, and protect you from neurodegeneration. So, don’t be afraid to lift those heavy ass weights – your body will thank you later.
How to Avoid Chronic Pain
*I’m not a medical doctor/nutritionist. Consult your doctor before making any life changing decisions on diet and exercise. Shoulder pain, neck pain, back pain, knee pain, hip pain! Are you tired of dealing with chronic pain? The culprit may not be your training. It might be your daily activity. Desk jobs, constant sitting, working on…