One of the first movement patterns that I teach my clients and athletes is the hip hinge. It’s one of the fundamental movement patterns you’ll use for most of your lower body training. For example, the Romanian Deadlift and Stiff Leg Deadlift utilize the hip hinge pattern to bow forward. The Russian style kettlebell swing is based on the hip hinge pattern and so are Olympic lifts.
Contrast to the squat, the hip hinge pattern occurs with minimal knee bend. It is essential in learning the difference between spine flexion and hip flexion and by learning and performing this pattern correctly, you’ll successfully target your hamstrings, glutes and low back, otherwise known as the posterior chain.
Here’s a short “how-to” video on learning the hip hinge. Enjoy and good luck.
