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The DWMA Straight Leg-Hip Hinge is a single movement screen that identifies the following kinetic chain joint segments:
- Glute/Hip Stability
- Hip Flexion
- Hip Extension
- Hamstring Extension
- Ankle Stability
TIP #1: When the athlete performs the hip hinge, cue the athlete to keep their foot and toe pointed to the ground. If you observe the athlete turning the foot/toe outward to achieve leg height, the athlete will need to incorporate the kinetic chain hamstring mobility and hip mobility corrective exercises.
TIP #2: Detect the balancing leg when the athlete performs the hip hinge. Ideally, the heel should be flat against the ground while maintaining balance as they bilaterally alternate movements. If not, the athlete will need to include the kinetic chain ankle mobility corrective exercises.
MOVEMENT SCREEN INSTRUCTION
The next Dynamic Movement Assessment is a single movement I call Straight Leg Hip Hinge. As the athlete performs this movement, observe their range of motion and ability to extend and maintain a straight trail leg, while balancing and reaching in their forward flexing position.
Specifically, in the forward hip hinge position, we want to look at glute strength and stability. If the athlete is unable to maintain their balance and posture in this hip hinge position, they will need to perform the suggested hip strengthening exercises described in the Kinetic Chain Corrective Exercises video.
And finally, we want to observe the hip flexion and extension, hamstring extension, along with the soleus extension. If the athlete’s range of hip flection seems a bit restrictive, then it’s suggested they perform hamstring mobility exercises and ankle mobility and strengthening exercises illustrated in the Kinetic Chain Corrective Exercises video.
