Your Piriformis Isn't Tight, it's WEAK! [4 Exercises to Get it Strong]

Precision Movement12 minutes read

The piriformis muscle can be tight due to weakness, not just tightness, requiring strengthening exercises. Various exercises target the piriformis, focusing on activation and strength to address issues related to tightness and dysfunction.

Insights

  • Weakness, rather than just tightness, in the piriformis muscle is a common issue that necessitates strengthening exercises to address the root cause of the problem.
  • Stretching alone may not be sufficient to alleviate tightness in the piriformis muscle, which can stem from neuromuscular issues and compensatory mechanisms, highlighting the importance of incorporating strengthening exercises into treatment plans.

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Recent questions

  • Why is the piriformis muscle often tight?

    Weakness, not just tightness, leads to tightness.

  • What is the piriformis muscle responsible for?

    External rotation and horizontal extension.

  • Can stretching alone resolve piriformis tightness?

    Stretching alone may not resolve tightness.

  • Why is strengthening the piriformis crucial?

    Weak muscles can lead to tightness and dysfunction.

  • What are some exercises to strengthen the piriformis?

    Side lying hip external rotation, standing closed chain hip external rotation, four-point hip abduction, standing hip opener.

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Summary

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Strengthening Exercises for Tight Piriformis Muscle

  • The piriformis muscle is often tight due to weakness, not just tightness, leading to the need for strengthening exercises.
  • The piriformis muscle is a deep hip muscle responsible for external rotation and horizontal extension, with its function varying based on hip position.
  • Stretching alone may not resolve tightness in the piriformis, as tightness can result from neuromuscular issues and compensatory mechanisms.
  • Strengthening the piriformis is crucial, as weak muscles can lead to tightness and dysfunction, especially in individuals with sedentary lifestyles.
  • The first exercise demonstrated is the side lying hip external rotation, focusing on activating the piriformis by lifting the leg and rotating the thigh.
  • The second exercise is the standing closed chain hip external rotation, emphasizing rotation around a grounded leg to engage the piriformis.
  • The third exercise involves the four-point hip abduction, targeting the piriformis by lifting the knee out to the side while maintaining a neutral spine.
  • The final exercise is the standing hip opener, combining hip flexion and horizontal extension to strengthen the piriformis and psoas muscles.
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