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Old 01-26-2013, 05:46 PM   #2
bkedelen
 
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Dojo: Boulder Aikikai
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 450
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Re: "natural" or "evolutionary movement"

Not speaking within the context of martial arts, but rather within the context of quality movement in general:

At least 50% of the utility of the spine comes from the fact that operating it as a joint is optional. Many skill-based physical programs prescribe a lot of time at the beginning to teach novices how to NOT use their spines as a joint while under load, because mobile spines fail immediately under even moderate loads. The starting positions in all barbell movements and the gymnastic hollow body position are primary examples. Even some skilled athletes do not have a mature capacity to control the mobilization and demobilization of the spine during dynamic activity. A good example is the guy in this video demonstrating a complete loss of chest control when squatting, resulting in him coming up on his toes and leaning far forward when in the hunter's squat.

I was surprised that this series did not mention this critical aspect of spinal control, given that it is quite germane. It would certainly benefit anyone undertaking a physical activity to develop a mature squat and the spinal control that entails. If your spine is not under control, it tends to dampen and hinder core-to-extremity movements, mute all applications of hip power, and slip you into poor positions at the most inopportune moments.

Last edited by bkedelen : 01-26-2013 at 05:58 PM.
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