The “Hip Hinge” is a spine-sparing exercise developed by Stuart McGill, Ph.D. that if practiced and applied to daily life can help to prevent low back injuries and pain.

The main concept is to bend at the hips while keeping the lumbar spine straight. This will help to protect the intervertebral discs, spinal joints and soft tissues. This is one of the most, if not the most, powerful movements we can perform. It should be applied to lifting objects off the floor, bending for any reason, sitting from standing, standing from sitting, etc.

Keep in mind that this is not a strength training exercise. It is a movement conditioning exercise that will help to develop a strong mechanical foundation. It should be practiced every day with the intention of it becoming second nature.

If you have pain or difficulty performing this, as with any movement pattern, seek the help of a professional who can evaluate and address the situation appropriately.