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Pelvic Bridge

Both Repertoire Beginner Spinal ArticulationHip & Posterior Chain

Segmental spinal articulation with glute and hamstring activation against spring resistance, avoiding lumbar compression.

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Schematic — Pelvic Bridge

⚠️ Clinical Contraindications

  • Low Back Pain: Articulate slowly and keep the ribs down; stop if the low back aches.

Apparatus Setup

Reformer

Spring Tension 1 Green or 1 Yellow Spring
Footbar Position High
Headrest Up

Target Muscles

Transverse Abdominis (Secondary)Hamstrings (Primary)Gluteus Maximus (Primary)Erector Spinae (Secondary)

Setup Instructions

Lie supine on the carriage with the feet on the footbar, heels under the knees, arms by the sides.

Execution Instructions

Peel the hips up into a bridge, then roll the spine down one vertebra at a time, letting the carriage assist the return.

Teaching Cues

Articulation

"Peel the spine up and down one vertebra at a time."

Control

"Do not push through the low back at the top of the bridge."

Breath

"Exhale as the hips lift, inhale as the spine rolls down."

Modifications & Progressions

Smaller Lift (Regression)

Reduce the bridge height and keep the feet closer to the bar.

Single Leg Bridge (Progression)

Lift one foot off the bar and bridge with a single leg.

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