What is Compression?

Compression

Compression is our body’s ability to be strong when we are at a mechanical disadvantage (such as the starting position of a press handstand).

The Compression Angle: This is the angle between your legs and your chest. Take a look at the photo below of the L-sit. The stronger you get, the more you can close that angle (think V-sit).

That’s why we will spend so much time developing the L-sit. If you have a hard time lifting your legs off the floor, it’s because you lack hip flexor strength. If your quads cramp when you try, it’s a sign your hip flexors need some work.

Look how much I improved my compression in 1 year. Notice how much more active hip flexion I have. If you want to become alien strong, then take your hip flexor strengthening exercises seriously. There are lots of hip flexor strengthening exercises in the core workouts in this program!

I want to help you start thinking more and more about compression (because it is game changing once you figure this out). Take a look at how much my compression improved in 15 months. The proof is in this picture! It's incredible what 6 months can do if you remain consistent!

Your ability to compress is dependent on 3 things:

1. Hip flexor strength (and hamstring mobility)

2. Qudratus Lumborum (QL) mobility (i.e. can your low back open?)

3. Overall TVA strength