ArcaMax

Good glutes mean good health. The muscles in your backside aren't just there to make you look good in your jeans -- they are essential for a healthy spine and back, good balance, and to give you the power you need to walk (10,000 steps a day), climb stairs, lift that bag of groceries, dash to catch a bus or play pickleball! But in this sit-down-and-stare-at-a-screen world (most folks sit for 6.4 or more hours a day!), even active folks can have flabby glutes.

There are three glutes. The gluteus maximus, in the center of your backside, is the largest muscle in the body. When it's weak, you are weakened, too. The medius is on the outside of your hips, and the minimus attaches more deeply onto your pelvis. They work with the maximus to keep you upright and moving forward -- and sideways.

Chances are you need to wake up your glutes -- and then do strengthening exercises.

1. Bridges done with hips 4 to 6 inches off the floor, held for a count of 10 -- repeated three times.

2. Knee to chest stretches done while lying on your back -- it increases hip flexibility.

Do these daily. Once you've got your glutes' attention, it's time for glute-strengthening exercises such as lunges, squats and the monster walk using a band. And for more tips on improving strength and balance, check out my book "The RealAge Workout" and power your muscles with great food in my "What to Eat When Cookbook."

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.

(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.