Hip Separation

Lacking hip separation can reduce stance-leg ground force and forward propulsion in sprinting. Hip separation is a marker of dynamic hip capability and supports locomotor patterns beyond sprinting. Hip separation is the ability to perform opposite actions on the two sides of the pelvis, such as flexing one hip while extending the other. Hip separation involves the pelvis organizing opposite actions on each side while maintaining integrity, not just isolated independent hip movement. Hip flexion on one side is associated with opening the pelvic outlet on that side, while terminal hip extension on the other side closes the outlet there. Hip separation is visible in sprinting and striking mechanics where one leg flexes forward while the other extends for propulsion.