What cue can help prevent knee valgus during single-leg exercises?

Activating the glutes during single-leg exercises is key to preventing knee valgus, which occurs when the knees collapse inward. The gluteus maximus and gluteus medius play a crucial role in stabilizing the hip joint and maintaining proper alignment of the lower extremities. When these muscles are activated effectively, they help to externally rotate and abduct the hip, which counters the inward movement of the knee.

By instructing individuals to engage their glute muscles throughout the movement, they are more likely to maintain correct knee alignment and keep the knee tracking over the foot. This not only enhances performance in the exercise but also reduces the risk of injury associated with improper knee movement patterns.

This approach is more effective than simply encouraging a deeper squat, instructing to push through the heels, or holding the other leg straight, as these cues do not specifically target the necessary hip stabilization that prevents knee valgus. Engaging the glutes focuses on strengthening the stabilizing muscles that directly affect knee positioning during the exercise, making it a proactive strategy in corrective exercise.