Many people simply CAN'T perform this type of mid-section undulation because of the dysfunctional core activation patterns caused by years of sitting at desks and in cars (often with crummy posture). It all comes down to the ability to tilt the pelvis anteriorly and posteriorly. If someone is having trouble with this skill in the water, we need to screen it on land first. If you can't do it on land with unlimited oxygen and without physiolgical duress, I don't think a butterfly set is going to improve things! Fortunately, this skill is very trainable and will improve not only performance but also general health for many with back issues.
Here's an example of an exercise that is valuable both as a screening tool and as a learning device. A good cue/mantra when performing is to "Arch the back, flatten the back, arch the back, flatten the back...." Upon conclusion, always return to neutral from an arched position since we want to achieve neutral by engaging the abdominals, not by releasing them.
YouTube- Pelvic tilt
Many people simply CAN'T perform this type of mid-section undulation because of the dysfunctional core activation patterns caused by years of sitting at desks and in cars (often with crummy posture). It all comes down to the ability to tilt the pelvis anteriorly and posteriorly. If someone is having trouble with this skill in the water, we need to screen it on land first. If you can't do it on land with unlimited oxygen and without physiolgical duress, I don't think a butterfly set is going to improve things! Fortunately, this skill is very trainable and will improve not only performance but also general health for many with back issues.
Here's an example of an exercise that is valuable both as a screening tool and as a learning device. A good cue/mantra when performing is to "Arch the back, flatten the back, arch the back, flatten the back...." Upon conclusion, always return to neutral from an arched position since we want to achieve neutral by engaging the abdominals, not by releasing them.
YouTube- Pelvic tilt
