Try this exercise when you get a chance – and call me if you cramp….that is if you can walk to get the phone. If, you do cramp – don’t worry…it doesn’t mean you’re out of shape necessarily but it does mean your brain is recruiting the wrong muscle group to support your pelvis during the bridge. When the hamstrings are recruited to stabilize the pelvis during the ‘leg extension’ portion you will most definitely feel the strain on your hamstring, or, you may cramp up immediately. The glutes will be identified as the lazy culprit – having passed on supporting the pelvis and letting the poor unsuspecting hamstrings carry the load….unsuccessfully.
If you experience what’s described as ‘shake and bake’ movement…..no worries….the glutes are engaged….just a little on the weak side.
