Shoulder Stability

The bridge component maintains an upper-body stability demand through the supporting shoulder and arm. The exercise creates a strong challenge through the shoulder girdle. The shoulder cue is intended to create scapular stability. Shoulders should remain stable during the setup and movement. The correct supported position is stable and elevated rather than collapsed. Adding cross-body hand reaches to the bear crawl increases shoulder stability demands. Arms should be kept reaching long throughout the movement to maintain shoulder girdle engagement. Keeping the shoulder locked back and down allows the lower trapezius to engage and stabilize the shoulder. Pressing away from the floor through the supporting forearm helps keep the shoulder active. Pressing the entire forearm into the ground is a key shoulder and upper-back cue. Pushing the floor away helps keep the upper back active. Firm forearm pressure activates muscles behind the shoulder blades. The shoulder should not shrug upward during the post position. The body should not sag while in the supported position.