thank you for replying gcoe!

The PT is getting me to learn how to use my spine with fine-tuned musclar control (fine-tuned is my term...) and my transerve abs. My understanding is that I am just using my large back muscles to move and I have to learn how to use all the little muscles. That's is why I don't really roll my spine one vertebrea at a time.

Yes, I know it is their job to teach me. He did teach me. I even practiced by myself while he went away. Then he came back and asked if I had any questions. I just didn't think about my butt muscles at the time. Really, he said the only thing I should think about is moving my knees away from my body. I just don't know.

I don't want to antagonize him. I will ofcourse ask for clarification next week but in the meantime that is my only homework assignment and I would like to get it right.

I don't have low back pain but he thinks some nerves are being pinched. In any event the exercise is only meant to teach me how to move properly.

Here is a video from youtube that is the same. My PT never used the word Rolfing.
YouTube - Rolfing Pelvic Lift

So, my question is that my upper butt muscles, just above the crack and to either side (sorry for terminology) automatically turn on because I can feel them relax when I finish the roll down.

But I can deliberately keep those upper butt muscles relaxed and if I do my back has to work a lot harder. Maybe all those little muscles that I never use???

So I just don't know- should I keep the upper butt relaxed or not?

thanx

in the video- the PT here does not say either. I would think whatever I do naturally would be correct but then, my natural ways are wrong so who knows!