So, the more I work with this element the more I realize how (insert expletive) difficult it is to twist my torso over to parallel while simultaneously keeping my lower obliques engaged and stationary, not allowing it to rise up as opposite oblique comes down. I figure this is a result of biomechanic shortcut since my body currently lacks the sufficient range of motion to twist that much with ease. To my question, in trying to keep the lower oblique engaged and stationery I feel some intense tension in my glute which bordered on shaking come the final set. Is this appropriate muscle engagement? Basically, my whole lower side from up to the lat through the obliques and down into the glute (maybe the medialis?) are activating in order to maintain stability and to stay stationary throughout the movement. It became pretty intense on sets 3 or 4. This could just be my body adjusting and that this is both normal and expected to have glute activation. But since the SL progressions are predominantly oblique focused I just wanted to know if I should put my emphasis on keeping the glutes engaged (as they helped keep my obliques from rising) or if I should simply tense the obliques harder, grinning and bearing it through and through.
Obviously, I could post a form check, but I'm not so much concerned with my 'form' as of yet because I know I'm not going low enough nor doing so with enough ease of motion. So, any clarification on this is appreciated. If not, I'll continue to tinker with trial and error until I get it right.