Bridging

Bridging

The bridging exercise works the muscles around your lower body and hips. Do not continue with this exercise if it causes pain.

  • Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Your knees should be bent about 90 degrees.
  • Find your neutral spine position. You will hold it during the exercise. Neutral spine is the name for posture that maintains the three normal curves in your spine.
  • Tighten your belly muscles by pulling in your belly button toward your spine.
  • Then push your heels into the floor, squeeze your buttocks, and lift your hips off the floor until your shoulders, hips, and knees are all in a straight line.
  • Hold about 6 seconds. Remember to breathe normally.
  • Lower yourself slowly to the floor and rest for up to 10 seconds.
  • Repeat 8 to 12 times.

Current as of: July 1, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Joan Rigg PT, OCS - Physical Therapy