The glutes—those powerhouse muscles in your backside—are essential for movement, posture, and overall strength. Whether you’re an athlete pushing through squats or someone just trying to walk comfortably, neglecting to stretch and strengthen your glutes can lead to pain, poor posture, and even decreased mobility.
In a recent GQ feature, Dr. Adrian J. Llañez, PT, DPT, of El Paso Physical Therapy Services, shared expert insights on why tight glutes can cause more than just discomfort. He explained that muscle weakness often contributes to tightness, limiting mobility and making everyday activities—like walking, stair climbing, and even sitting—more challenging.
“Tight glutes can limit the range that your legs need to perform everyday tasks,” Dr. Llañez notes. “Lack of mobility in your glutes puts more pressure on surrounding joints, leading to hip and lower back pain.”
The solution? A combination of stretching and strengthening. By ensuring your glutes are both flexible and strong, you can prevent tightness from becoming a bigger issue. Neglecting this area can have a ripple effect, impacting everything from your lower back to your toes.
If you’re feeling tightness in your glutes, it’s time to take action. Whether you’re an active individual or spend much of your day sitting, incorporating targeted stretches and strength exercises can make a world of difference.
Read more: https://www.gq.com/story/how-to-stretch-your-glutes