Reciprocal inhibition is a natural process and how your body functions under normal conditions. For example: Biceps contract, triceps relax to allow movement to occur.

Altered reciprocal inhibition is what you are referring to when a tight muscle inhibits the proper firing of another.

Yes, you can build strength in the inhibited muscle group increasing it's activation through targeted movements. Doing so may also help to release the tension in the overactive muscles.

For the glutes some examples would be using a band and performing hip abductions, 45 degree angle straight leg hip extensions, and straight leg hip extensions.

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"Just don’t abandon everything you’ve ever learned because of something someone said on the internet." - Eric McGinnis

Thanks for response. That's exactly what I was looking for.

On the flip side though, here is the response someone sent me when I posed the question on a massage therapy forum

" I personally would try to release the psoas. You would get more out of your exercises if it is all working better. I know sometimes if you get your leg up, so your this is 90 degrees to your torso and your shin is parallel to tour torso, have somebody else hold your leg in this position. Your glutes should release and the longer you hold the position the easier it will be for your psoas to finally relax. I hope this helps and makes sense."

Bottom line is, though, I will do both. It's frustrating, in the past my tight hip flexors and inhibited glutes have let to just a domino effect of hip, lower back and even knee issues. I don't want to go through that again. Thanks again for the response.

Definitely agree on still working to release the tight muscle as well. Even though releasing your tighteas hasn't worked up to this point, you don't want to stop it. It is both releasing the tightness and strengthening the weakness that are key to correcting the imbalance. It will take time paired with focus and consistency.

Good luck!

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"Just don’t abandon everything you’ve ever learned because of something someone said on the internet." - Eric McGinnis

A lot of good info on website. http://www.matjournal.com/. The use of Muscle Activation Techniques is great for releasing muscles.

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