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Blog featured image Iliopsoas

Does Strengthening the Iliopsoas Matter?

In recent years, the topic of strengthening the iliopsoas muscle has sparked considerable interest and questions. One prevalent question is the necessity of additional strengthening for this muscle, particularly given its significant role in forward motion. In this Muscle and Motion article, I will answer those questions as a physical therapist and personal trainer.   […]

Blog featured image Yoga for Runners

Yoga for Runners: Enhancing Performance and Preventing Injuries

Running is a popular form of exercise and sport that offers numerous health benefits. Adding yoga to your running routine can elevate your performance and flexibility while reducing injury risks and serving as a tool in rehabilitation. In this Muscle and Motion article, we explore the prevalent injuries among runners and examine how yoga can […]

Blog featured image Anterior Knee Pain Exercises

3 Powerful Anterior Knee Pain Exercises

Anterior knee pain (AKP) includes multiple conditions, with patellofemoral pain being the most common. It can affect many people’s success in the gym and in day-to-day life.  Clinical findings associated with AKP According to Mc Clinton et al. 2020 clinical findings associated with AKP may include the following: patellar hypermobility hypo-mobility  impaired quadriceps or hip […]

Blog featured image Plyometric Training Program

Designing a Plyometric Training Program

Plyometric exercises, often referred to as jump training or “plyos,” are dynamic and explosive movements designed to increase strength, speed, and overall athletic performance. These exercises can significantly enhance your physical capabilities and are ideal for both upper- and lower-body training. This Muscle and Motion article offers an in-depth guide to building a plyometric training […]

Blog featured image Plyometrics: The Science of Explosive Strength

Plyometrics – The Science of Explosive Strength

Plyometric exercises involve explosive movements designed to increase strength, speed, and agility. By engaging the stretch-shortening cycle of the muscles, these exercises leverage the force of elastic energy to improve athletic performance. This Muscle and Motion article delves into the science behind plyometrics, outlines beginner and advanced techniques, and offers advice on integrating these powerful […]

Blog featured image Lifting with a Flexed Spine

Lifting with a Flexed Spine – is it Really Harmful?!

Lifting objects from the ground is an essential daily activity we all regularly perform. For many years, we used to believe lifting with spinal flexion could be a risk factor for lower back injuries and pain. Today, we know lifting with a flexed spine is not necessarily harmful, and there is no one way to […]

Blog featured image Eccentric Biceps Curl (Resistance Band)

Understanding Eccentric Muscle Contractions

Eccentric contractions are a type of muscle contraction in which the muscle-tendon complex lengthens and contracts at the same time. This type of contraction has several distinct traits distinguishing it from other contractions, potentially resulting in unique adaptations. Due to its particular physiological and mechanical characteristics, eccentric muscle work has garnered growing attention for rehabilitation […]

Blog featured image Rectus Abdominis Exercises

Rectus Abdominis Exercises

3 Exercises to Target the Rectus Abdominis Muscle   The rectus abdominis is one of the four abdominal muscles located in the anterior abdominal region and running vertically along the midline of the abdomen, extending from the pubic bone to the sternum. The rectus abdominis is responsible for posterior pelvic tilt (PPT) and spine flexion. […]

Blog featured image Internal VS External Focus in Resistance Training

Internal vs. External Focus in Resistance Training

In the realm of resistance training, the way you focus during exercise is crucial. It’s not just about what exercises you do but also about how you execute them. You can use two key types of cues in your training: internal and external. Grasping the nuances between internal and external cues and their impact on […]

Ground Reaction Force

When we walk, run, or simply stand, there’s a silent yet powerful force at play, fundamental to our movement yet often unnoticed: the ground reaction force (GRF). This force is not just a key player in the biomechanics of our daily activities but also a crucial concept in fields like sports science, physical therapy, and […]