This Muscle Is the Unsung Hero of Longevity
The New York Times • • health
Key Points:
- The gluteus muscles, particularly the gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus, play a crucial role not only in aesthetics but also in stability, balance, and healthy aging.
- Strong glutes act as shock absorbers during activities like walking and climbing stairs, helping to prevent back pain and reduce the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
- Prolonged sitting can weaken the glutes, leading to "dead butt syndrome," yet many people neglect these muscles in their workouts, which experts warn against.
- Weak glutes cause other muscles to overcompensate, potentially resulting in knee pain, low back pain, hamstring strains, and ankle sprains.
- Physical therapists emphasize the importance of strong glutes for independent living and everyday activities such as getting off public transport or rising from a toilet.
