Hip/shoulder separation refers to the angle of difference between the hips and shoulders during rotation. For quarterbacks, this is created in the first half of your throw as your hips rotate forward and your upper body stays closed/slightly works backward.
.png)
This creates stored energy in the trunk which can be used to accelerate the torso forward creating a “whip” effect. This is like when you get a snap after pulling a rubber band back.
Simply put, a larger angle of separation creates more potential for velocity.
To achieve great hip shoulder separation you must keep your torso closed during the pull phase of your throw. This means, your off-side hand must slightly work backward (towards throwing side chest) & your front shoulder remains closed. You do not want to fly your front side shoulder open on the pull phase. At the same time, it is key to start rotating your hips forward. You want to focus on rotating your back hip and not push or extend through the hip. The ideal position to get into is to have your hips rotated fully & your torso closed at maximum external rotation in your shoulder.
This is not just a fundamental issue. You must also have great mobility in your hips & spine to get into proper position of hips and shoulder separating. This is why it’s essential to work both fundamentals & mobility when trying to increase your hip/shoulder separation.
Curious what your hip/shoulder separation is? Join the lab (link) & get access to this & over 20 other vital metrics for quarterbacks.
