Tailbone Alignment
Tailbone alignment refers to the structure of the lumbar spine in relation to the pelvis, and the pelvis in relation to the femurs. Depending on what you are trying to do, there is an optimal positioning of the tailbone. For instance, most weightlifters would agree that the tailbone should be in the 'neutral' or even the 'sway-back' position when deadlifting, as the forces in play are mostly vertical. This correlates to a neutral or somewhat anterior pelvic tilt. And most martial artists would agree that for dealing with opponents, the forces in play are usually horizontal, so the tailbone should be relatively 'tucked'. Then the tailbone: this forms the keystone of the arch between feet and hands. This correlates to posterior pelvic tilt. There is no one correct position. To master mechanics, you must move the tailbone into the correct position for whatever you are trying to do.
See also our free online course: Fundamentals: Body Mechanics
