A Postural Error: A Costly Biomechanical Fault: Muted Hip Function (MHF)

The Problem

The most powerful forces that can be generated by the human body are initi- ated, controlled, and dominated by the hip. Unfortunately, in the majority of trainees, some degree of hip dysfunc- tion creates postures and mechanics that reduce power and stability and are generally unsound. The faulty mechanics arise from inadequate training and insuf- ficient practice of critical hip move- ments. We've named this widespread fault "muted hip function" or "MHF."

Who's Got It?

MHF is evident to some degree in all but the most accomplished athletes or those who've trained to avoid it. We tell our best athletes that it will typically take three to five years to fully develop the hip's explosive capacity where there are no sign of MHF postures or tendencies.

The Mechanics

MHF is, ultimately, the postures resulting from the legs compensating for the hip's failure - specifically, and foremost, using leg extension to compensate for weak or nonexistent hip extension. MHF is squatting where hip extension is retarded while leg extension is not.