What is one potential effect of excessive anterior pelvic tilt on athletic performance?

Excessive anterior pelvic tilt can significantly affect athletic performance, particularly by increasing the risk of lower back pain. When the pelvis is tilted forward excessively, it alters the natural curvature of the spine, leading to increased pressure on the lumbar vertebrae and surrounding muscles. This dysfunction can cause muscular imbalances, leading to tight hip flexors and weakened glutes, and potentially placing additional strain on the lower back. Athletes may experience discomfort, pain, or even injury as a result of this biomechanical alteration, which can hinder their performance and ability to train effectively.

The other options do not accurately reflect the implications of excessive anterior pelvic tilt. For instance, while balance might be influenced by many factors, this specific posture is not known to improve balance; rather, it can lead to instability. Contrary to suggesting a reduced risk of injury, this condition heightens the chance of pain and injury due to biomechanical stress. Lastly, while decreased stride length can be a consequence of certain postural issues, excessive anterior pelvic tilt primarily impacts spinal health and musculoskeletal function, rather than directly affecting stride length.