01/16/2026
This video demonstrates a manual therapy technique focused on the Gluteus Maximus, the largest muscle in the human body. It illustrates a specific "3-point move and release" method designed to improve hip mobility and reduce tension in the gluteal region.
Targeted Areas of the Gluteus Maximus
The video breaks the muscle down into three distinct zones to ensure a comprehensive release:
Lower Part (Yellow Zone): The fibers closest to the bottom of the hip and upper thigh.
Upper Part (Blue Zone): The fibers located near the top of the hip bone (iliac crest).
Origin (Green Zone): The attachment points near the sacrum (base of the spine) and the pelvic bone.
The Technique: "Move and Release"
The practitioner uses a combination of passive stretching and manual pressure to release the muscle:
Positioning: The person receiving the treatment lies on their back (supine). The practitioner lifts the leg, bending the knee and hip.
3-Point Contact: The practitioner applies pressure to one of the three colored zones (Lower, Upper, or Origin).
The "Move": While maintaining pressure on the specific point, the practitioner moves the patient's leg across the body and into deeper flexion.
The "Release": This movement creates a functional stretch that helps "unstick" muscle fibers and improve the range of motion in the hip joint.
Why is this used?
This type of therapy is often used by physical therapists, massage therapists, or sports doctors to help with:
Lower back pain: Tight glutes can pull on the pelvis and cause lumbar strain.
Hip stiffness: Improving the flexibility of the gluteus maximus allows for smoother walking and squatting movements.
Sciatica-like symptoms: Reducing tension in the glutes can sometimes relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Note: Always consult with a licensed professional before attempting manual therapy techniques to avoid injury to the hip or spine.