Activation Technique

Activation exercises are single-joint movements designed to target specific under-active muscles while minimizing the contribution of over-active synergists. These exercises aim to address muscle imbalances that can lead to postural dysfunction, and cannot be multi-joint movements due to compensation patterns. For example, the side-lying leg raise exercise is a gluteus medius activation involving resisted hip abduction with specific cues to minimize TFL contribution. Activation exercises can be beneficial for injury prevention, improving muscle activation, and enhancing performance. Some synonyms for activation exercises include isolation exercises, muscle activation techniques, and corrective exercises.

Activation Technique

Activation Technique: A single-joint movement pattern (most often) designed to load a specific under-active muscle(s), while minimizing the contribution of over-active synergists via specific cues/joint motions.

Activation techniques/exercises are performed with the intent of addressing a muscle exhibiting a reduction in activity (tone) as a result of, or contributing to postural dysfunction.
Activation techniques/exercises cannot be multi-joint movement patterns due to relative flexibility, altered reciprocal inhibition, and synergistic dominance resulting in compensation patterns.

For example, the side-lying leg raise is a gluteus medius activation involving resisted hip abduction while minimizing the contribution of the TFL via hip extension.

Activation Technique

Activation Technique

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