You're Doing the Bridge WRONG! Here's How to Fix It

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(Amazon Affiliate links) To subscribe to 3-Tip Friday, Will's free weekly email where he shares his best health tips, new videos and fascinating research, go here: info.ht-physio.co.uk/3tf To get a copy of Will's new book, Thriving Beyond Fifty, you can find it on Amazon below:
UK link: amzn.to/3mAISFv
US link: amzn.to/3J1ACGi
(Amazon Affiliate links)
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In this episode, Farnham's leading over-50's physiotherapist, Will Harlow, reveals how 90% of people get the bridge exercise WRONG and how to do ir properly instead!
If you're suffering from nagging knee pain that hurts in the morning and stops you from walking as far as you'd like, you can take our free knee pain guide - which will give you 5 expert tips to put a stop to knee pain at home - by visiting here: ht-physio.co.uk/knee-pain-gui...
To get in touch about sponsorships or promos, send a message to: [e-mail]
If you're over-50 with a painful problem in the Farnham, Surrey area, you can learn more about how Will Harlow and HT Physio can help you overcome a painful problem here: ht-physio.co.uk/
*Any information in this video should not be used as a substitute for individual medical advice. Please seek advice from your local healthcare professional before taking action on the information in this video.* Full policy here: ht-physio.co.uk/injury-discla...

[@susanwhalen1970]

I REALLY WISH YOU WERE MY PHYSIO THERAPIST! YOU EXPLAIN EVERYTHING SO WELL!

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you! So pleased I'm able to reach people through KZbin even though I cannot see everyone in person!

[@almaarri3]

Thank you for your great explanation but I find it’s not complete. I wish you had explained also how the neck should be activated.. In the demonstration I see you are using a pillow, why? The position of the head is very important in this exercise

[@martinoffl]

​@@HT-Physio HI sir I have postural imbalance ❤❤ Means I have posterior pelvic tilt while correcting it my body turns into anterior pelvic tilt So will u please tell what excercises i need to do

[@anuraggupta6917]

Hlo

[@debcatz8445]

Exactly

[@pollybish2988]

Wow, ive worked with many good personal trainers over years, but not a single one has explained this movement so well. Thanks a bunch!

[@jondowling720]

Wow. As a Personal Trainer that’s a shame that the experiences you’ve had in the past,they couldn’t explain how to perform a basic exercise correctly

[@HT-Physio]

I'm sorry you've not had great experiences with your personal trainers before, I'm pleased I was able to offer a more in depth explanation for you!

[@crisalis]

I’m sorry you’ve experienced that, as far as I know evert pilates instructor I’ve encountered explained every exercise they taught me from posture, control, breathing, centering and flow.

[@anuraggupta6917]

Hi

[@macelven]

Perfect tutorial. I always get hamstring cramps doing this, my physio says it is the best exercise for my knee and back but has she never told me to do it this way. Thank you.

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased I could offer a helpful demonstration to support you!

[@irenewhalen1055]

Me,too. I'll tell some special workers and therapy and Phyiotherapy about your perfect teachings. THANKS SO MUCH. I'll do soon😊

[@gillhoward7975]

Absolutely brilliant! So lovely to have someone for us more 'mature' clients!😊

[@HT-Physio]

Always happy to help!

[@margaretlouis5172]

Thank you, Mr Harlow, for your specificity in isolating the parts for executing the bridge; you have the gift of the gap as they say, to make it so clear !

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much! I'm pleased I could offer a helpful explanation

[@paulc2106]

Another very clear and informative demonstration - thanks Will 👍🏻

[@HT-Physio]

You're more than welcome!

[@karenbailey7642]

Wow..thank you for this info. You are the first therapist I have watched that explained the positioning.

[@colindeans9477]

I have never seen such a good description/explanation of this exercise. Thank You !!

[@mm1788]

You deliver the clearest and most effective instructions for exercise of any video I have seen. Thank you!

[@edrabogucki401]

This is one of the exercises prescribed for me because of bursitis in my left hip and arthritis in my left knee! Fortunately, my therapist gave me a printout illustrating and instructing how to do the exercises! Illustration is SO helpful. Thank you!

[@heatherangellight8558]

Wow! I want to send this video to my PT place!! I have gone there on and off for things for 15 years and they always want me to do these and have NEVER taught me how to i now realize I was doing them wrong in every way!! You are the best!!!! Own it!!! ❤

[@HT-Physio]

I'm sorry to hear they haven't taken the time to demonstrate the exercise properly, that's the reason injuries occur! I hope my demonstration can offer some guidance

[@lucilledandridge3468]

Excellent! I have been experiencing cramping in my hamstrings while doing my bridge exercises. Over the years, I’ve gotten tips to help do the bridge better. The pelvic tilt to flatten the back was one. In a group gym class, there’s not enough time to thoroughly work on one exercise. Your video was great because it discussed the right way to do this valuable exercise. Thank you.❤

[@sandrafrancis6809]

So age is not a factor after all. And such a young physio therapist....and very pleasing to the eyes too! Thank you.

[@petterflage7292]

I have done these mistakes for years. Thanks for the good information.

[@clarezimberlin8729]

Thanks for this guidance on Bridge technique. It was so clear & helpful, Will. I really appreciate your videos.

[@HT-Physio]

Very pleased to help - I'm glad my videos can offer some support!

[@user-lb5ex1cq1t]

Best explanation so far of the best exercise I've made, thank you

[@donnamoran647]

Thank you so much for explaining that move. I have back and hamstring cramps… now I am going to take my time and be more mindful of how I am doing the move. Thank you!!

[@dianekelsay3072]

Thank you, I really appreciate you showing us the correct way to bridge. I have changed many of my moves since watching you. My husband has noticed how much taller I look walking and with a purpose, not just shuffling along. I've been working on keeping my head straight as possible as I work. I don't want to look old!!! Thank you for that.

[@deborahcaprara9993]

Excellent advice and description, thank you!

[@terryjames-nk4oc]

Your videos are so clear and easy to understand.

[@lolsaXx]

I'm not over 50. I'm a 28 year old mum of 3 and this was very helpful. I'm very flexible and this often leads to me having incorect posture as I really need to rebuild my strength again. Thank you.

[@rudolphgartner9668]

I like your explanation and demonstration of what is the better way to do the glute bridge. It makes a lot of sense. I will try and do the five aspects that you explain and demonstrate.

[@Cool.Cat.Flannegan]

I’m glad to know my personal trainer had me do the bridge using all these steps. This was a good review.

[@kendylhoudyshell1399]

Excellent demonstration Will Thanks so much!!!

[@HT-Physio]

More than happy to help!

[@mikeverdi]

WOW, very helpful and explains why my back is hurting after the exercise. Thanks so much.

[@susiewanng2285]

I had a young PT who only instructed my exercise with a printer. 😮 Talked me thru the exercise, get a printout with pictures and written instructions. Wasn't alerted to how/what could go wrong. You are so right..90% of us get it wrong ending with cramps and stiffness, then not going thru it at all. Another great explanation of yours, Will. Ever so grateful!

[@HT-Physio]

I'm sorry your PT didn't take the time to go through the exercise thoroughly - I'm pleased I have been able to offer a more comprehensive explanation!

[@philiprand3720]

Many thanks. I now own a titanium left hip and have been doing lots of bridges since last summer (here in Rome). In fact, cramps were a problem, so I think your advice will be helpful.

[@heenab4898]

Wow. That was an awesome guide to doing the bridge right. Thank you.

[@pritidesai5893]

Very good explanation. Thanks

[@ronevans3663]

Thanks for showing how the right way. I’ve been doing that exercise for two months now. Two of 5, I was doing it wrong. I’ve been dealing with spinal stenosis, four years.

[@malautubevani]

Very well explained. Thank you.

[@shanmuganathanb9910]

Oh .Thank you so much! I have been doing it wrong all this time! Now I can correct myself. Thanks again! ❤😊

[@kevinmcgrane4279]

Yes. Very good instruction. Thank you. I learned something today.

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear!

[@deeannjohnsoncapps6018]

So helpful like all your videos to explain proper form! I have had loads of PT’s advice & none have taken the time to show me the proper movement more than just explaining the movement without key points like these! Thank you.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm sorry your previous PTs haven't taken the time to demonstrate the moves clearly - I hope my video can offer some guidance!

[@francesstager997]

Excellent recommendation on how to fine-tune an exercise I do quite often! Many THANKS!

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear - it's always helpful to have an extra source of guidance to make sure we're doing things safely!

[@suthamanoharan]

Thanks for the excellent explanation and tips.

[@williamhodgson1428]

Brilliant, informative video as always.

[@user-ym9ze4ru8h]

Excellent demostration. Thank you very much.

[@HT-Physio]

You're very welcome!

[@celinemulji]

Great teaching!

[@joseantoniocoimbra7920]

Excellent explanation!

[@peterdonnelly6804]

Very clear, I can't wait to add this to my routine ❤

[@HT-Physio]

Wishing you all the best :)

[@corazonchiukee4285]

Thank you I love your teaching, I have a back pain, I'm very lucky to watch every kind of teaching ❤👍

[@HT-Physio]

I'm sorry to hear about your back pain - I hope my videos can offer some relief!

[@gilbertobrien7261]

Great. Simple advice, clearly delivered -- and spot on about my back pain. Strangely my back is too flexible and so I feel encouraged to extend upwards when doing the bridge, with the result that my lower back is not so much painful as it is stiffening. Good advice. Thanks.

[@mercyong2199]

Thank you for the very detailed explanation. God bless.

[@mikemm40]

Thank you and very helpful. Form is everything for the right results and no injury.

[@HT-Physio]

Absolutely!

[@bhupinderjitparmar9244]

Thanks for one more excellent video Will. Your instructions are always precise and clear to understand. Wish all the physiotherapist had that knack of explaining things. Stay blessed❤

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much for your kind words - it's taken plenty of time to get here but I'm pleased I'm able to share my work with so many others!

[@robertq55403]

Excellent video Will! Love the informative and encouraging tutorial. Keep up the great work!!

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much!

[@mitchgilbert1090]

Thanks for another superb demonstration of a useful core exercise. I'll add this to my routine of prone and side planks.

[@HT-Physio]

Keep up the great work!

[@user-fq1jp6mx7d]

Thankyou you so much Will. I have just discovered your videos and you have addressed many issues I have been struggling with. I an learning a lot and it has got me back to exercising again. So thanks heaps from New Zealand.

[@liamarson8597]

Thank you so much for this video. The information is so valuable, clear, and precise. In addition, I'm looking forward to read your book which I have just got from Amazon. Thank you again, and again, and again!

[@burdett3]

Really excellent advice, just tried this and the difference is felt immediately. Thank you.

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear - so pleased I could offer some guidance!

[@Misdy]

Thank you for this! Bridges were recommended for me but I Was doing it wrong. Thus having more pain later, so I stopped doing them. Now I can try it again. Great explanation.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm sorry to hear you've suffered from this move before! I hope this demonstration can offer some guidance!

[@KathyBGood]

Thank you so much . I stopped doing these because of the after effects of low back pain. I'll try again, focusing on doing it right.

[@HT-Physio]

Sorry to hear you've suffered from this move before! I hope this demonstration can offer some guidance!

[@lifefitnesswithHelen]

Great demo and explanation. Stott Pilates instructors will know this too and will cue accordingly. Thank you for spreading the word.

[@HT-Physio]

Very happy to help :)

[@meletcl]

The past 3 physical therapists I have worked with have not explained the finer but simple pointers to executing this move correctly. Thanks again Will.

[@HT-Physio]

Happy I can be of help to offer a more comprehensive explanation!

[@sesayalpha1200]

It's perfect... thanks

[@grettaspier2756]

Thank you. I cramp and I go too far up. I'll be trying all your techniques.

[@joseenoel8093]

Love the green lamp, a classic!

[@esperanzapichardo420]

😊Tank you for the tip

[@barbarapymm6491]

Thanks for this and your clear explanation. I was prescribed this exercise 2 weeks ago by my physio for sciatica (which came on with flu last November) but I'm still struggling to move my back off the mattress at all because of the intense pain whenever I try this movement. I've been hoping it just needed practice so I've been persevering for 2 weeks, but I'm at the point of wondering if it's doing more harm than good as it always brings on pain. I'm 70 and I took note of the 4 exercises suggested in your video 'Sciatica in Seniors'. Unfortunately it's 4 weeks to my next physio appointment and I may not be able to reach her by phone. So I'd be very grateful for your advice.

[@lindagardiner6661]

Thanks Will. Always great advice & instruction. I love the way you explain maintaining correct technique. I often re: check your videos that I am doing correct technique with my exercises. Thanks you so much. 🙏🏼 From Silverdale Australia…

[@Tammy-zr9zw]

FANTASTIC explanation! Thank you!

[@HT-Physio]

You're very welcome!

[@SandyBatten1962]

I thought I had a lower back problem but through your tuition I’ve come to see I have a chronic glute activation issue in tandem with a weak core. My mind is blown at how much relief I’m experiencing & therefore better functionality simply because my glute areas being switched on. Can you share any standing glute activation exercises that can be performed if I’m out and can’t go to the floor without raising eyebrows😊

[@marthas8483]

I wondered why my back always hurt after I did the bridge! Thanks for straightening me out on this move. You're the best.

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased my video was able to offer some guidance on how to get the most out of this move!

[@chrischristodoulou4222]

You are really great in explaining and demonstrating everything!! For sure I can improve on this! Thanks

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much for your kind words!

[@humashahid6924]

Simply brilliant

[@user-cf9gi9uo8n]

Thanks Will have been doing bridge incorrectly for years following advice of some yoga teachers which has irritated my lower back.

[@HT-Physio]

Sorry to hear you've suffered from this move before! I hope this demonstration can offer some guidance

[@tannimann5144]

Great video. Thanks

[@Poeme340]

Helpful-thx!👍

[@user-jm5ul3mn6h]

thank you!

[@SteveSaltmarsh]

Yes, I was doing every mistake mentioned! Thanks a lot for a most helpful vid Will.

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased my video was able to offer guidance on how to get the most out of this move!

[@vickielewis3848]

My first day in therapy. On for ten visits. Diagnosed with severe narrowing of L5/S1 ¹disk causing painful right side sciatica going on ten weeks. 75 and swimming Mile day I summer but too sedentary in winter. Doing bridges today. Three other exercises for homework once/day. Also had traction table with heat 10 minutes. YAY for clinical decompression. Felt so good. Also did push against boss ball with knees bent. Felt great!! Pool opens 1 April beginning w/15 mins attention to posture. Feel good now. 👋👱‍♀️🇺🇲💜

[@Gordon-yu9ze]

Thanks for the clear demonstration. Cheers 😀.

[@HT-Physio]

Happy to help!

[@seamusmcfreak]

Excellent video, very clear, concise information. How do you feel about putting an exercise band/loop around the thighs during the exercise?

[@sylviagladden1321]

Thanks for the bridge correction.

[@HT-Physio]

Happy to help!

[@shahedhuda5506]

Thank You Bro ❤

[@thairk]

Very good explanation, thank you!

[@HT-Physio]

Happy to help :)

[@kmk1945]

Good demonstration..thanks

[@HT-Physio]

Happy to help!

[@vanfann6273]

Thanks so much!

[@jdlazar]

Brilliantly done, thanks so very much!

[@HT-Physio]

Happy to help!

[@anna-rosephipps3132]

Very useful indeed. Thank you

[@HT-Physio]

Happy to help!

[@motherhenfromsouthke]

Excellent videos and I’ve bought your book. My knee is being helped to heal by your advice. Thank you

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much for purchasing my book - I'm so pleased my work is able to offer you help in your healing journey!

[@magdal01]

@@HT-Physio Dear Will, I WILL buy - but in video form, please!!!! Pls, make a video after your book that we can purchase!

[@drescherjm]

I learned to do the bridge as part of PT for knee pain. After 5 weeks of 10 to 12 daily exercises my knee pain (which I had for 7+ years) was almost totally gone and almost a year later it's still great.

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear - I'm so pleased it was able to offer such amazing relief, that shows the benefits that can come from doing the exercises properly!

[@drescherjm]

@@HT-Physio Thanks. When my physical therapist asked me what my expectations were from PT I said to reduce the pain so it was less of a nagging issue. I didn't imagine it would / could be no longer an issue.

[@gerardvinh8766]

Fantastic directions.😊😊😊

[@fleurflower1598]

Excellent yet again. As you said this is a common form of exercise but it was good to see you demonstrate it. I shall be mindful of my technique the next class I do this in. Thank you 😊

[@HT-Physio]

Keep up the great work, it's always good to have confirmation that you're performing a move safely!

[@cecican4071]

Another piece of valuable information from you 👍👍, thank you so much 🙏🙏

[@HT-Physio]

More than happy to help!

[@okkietrooy6841]

I was barely able to do the bridge due to immediate cramps in my hamstrings. Changing the angle of my knees is making all the difference. The reminder to pay attention to flatten the back was also usefull. Now, I like in stead of hate this excercise. My body will love this change of heart.

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear you noticed such an immediate improvement!

[@wanna007]

Great explanation❤

[@frronnissen5266]

Good value tips on bridge, Will. Thanks from Sydney.

[@HT-Physio]

Always happy to help!

[@aradhanaagrawal9513]

Such a detailed video with such astute suggestions and cautions. Many many thanks for your training videos. One question - should we use a soft pillow or best to avoid using any pillow at all.

[@anandadas6174]

Many thanks for your information. I also did the wrong bridge . love from India Assam

[@alanperlman2213]

Another excellent video. I still got a cramp in my thigh muscle.

[@user-vk4id2hj4m]

Excellent thank you Will for giving me the reasons the bridge has not been effective for me and Why I had to stop to ease lower back pain

[@HT-Physio]

Sorry to hear you've suffered from this move before! I hope this demonstration can offer some guidance

[@jettmanas]

Wow, you're good. I tried it once carefully after watching & felt a bit of pain after. Don't want to risk it again. Had a neck, back & nerve injury after turning 50 some months ago & hope to get more feeling back in my feet. Popular vid.

[@EvelynBaron]

You are so right Will!!! I had 2 primary goals after hip surgery: strengthening the glutes without unduly burdening core muscles and working on hip abductors. I had a really great physiotherapist who used a resistance band around my knees (have seen squeezing a ball but you explained everything perfectly when executing the bridge) and started with an isometric warm up just squeezing glutes and contracting ab muscles to flatten the spine. (socks tip great btw) Also of course doing everything slowly to avoid .... well just messing up lol, the biggest takeaway from me, who really was starting from zero!!!!! The other standard exercise for another day for fellow hip survivors is I believe still called the oyster *also used resistance bands for that one) which was specifically for hips. There was a lot more but no pun intended, those two were core.😊😊As always tx!! Your clients are lucky indeed. Note to self and others; I was in a great hurry to get better and never missed a day and found that being sensible and waiting for muscle recovery depending on one's level of fitness was a mistake I made initially which slowed me down a bit developed plantar fasciitis because gait when walking remained uneven, now resolved.... did take a while. Canada has like the UK universal health coverage but I had limited access to the number of appointments so was winging things a bit, inevitable ... sorry for long message hope it was helpful for someone.

[@kkrolf2782]

I broke the head of my femur off while going through the Denver Airport, which was a “Good News / Bad News” scenario. The GOOD news was I doubt there’s another place in the U.S. who’d have any more knowledgeable surgeons to deal with my injury, given that they are probably well practiced at their craft due to skiing injury frequency rates there. The BAD news was I went home - to another s t a t e ! - with no game plan for P.T.!! I thought I was to start t h a t process A F T E R I was healed and quit hurting! W R O N G !!! Three months after the surgery, still having pain, AND walking BENT OVER with a WALKER, I sought input from my G.P. who referred me for therapy. I will say it helped, but T H E best outcome - which came as a fluke, because my regular therapist had to be away something like 3 weeks - came in the hands of therapy TECH who “laid hands upon me” and massaged the areas that had been taken over by SCAR TISSUE!! She managed to break it down over those 6 or so sessions, and - Heaven above, please bless & protect her - I walk upright, with no limping or pain, and dance in my kitchen to my tunes!!! I encourage everyone who sees this, DO N O T HESITATE TO PUSH FOR THE HELP YOU NEED !!

[@EvelynBaron]

@@kkrolf2782OMG you are so right! At one point because of delays I found a podiatrist of all things who taught me to used a massage gun which I still do as needed but can take my dog out. A lot of hard work and stops and starts, but 68 I'm not frail, I don't depend on people for everyday functionality I didn't have to give up my dog (she doesn't know it but she is the meaning of love; my husband passed a lot of people find themselves with no-one to depend on or in fact want to.) It's crucial. Wonderful comment! Thank you!💕💕

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you for your comment - it sounds like you set the perfect post-surgery goals and that you took great care to do things properly (which is the most important step). Recovery takes time and patience but the results are worth it. Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@AinoShperber]

Very nicely explained. 👍🏻👍🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@raclark2369]

Thanks. Now I have to get back to doing these, kinda dropped them from my routine. (My core misses them)

[@user-mc4yr9pm8m]

thanks a lot

[@alejandrocedres1662]

Thank you Will!!!

[@mhouslay7281]

Thanks so much for this brilliant video. Super useful. So clear and informative. 👍😊

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased I could be of help!