Abs, Core, and Pelvic Floor: What You Need to Know to See Progress
There is so much misinformation about abs, core, and the pelvic floor that people harbor many misconceptions about these areas. At the same time, the midsection is one of the most unloved parts of people’s bodies. People come to me all the time seeking ways to tone and slim down their midsection.
In today’s episode of The Balanced Life podcast, I’ll clear up common misconceptions about abs, core, and the pelvic floor, you’ll learn the muscle groups that make up your core, what to do to tone your midsection, and what you can do about pelvic floor issues like pain and incontinence.
So many people have been waiting for an episode on this subject, so don’t hesitate to click play and share with a friend.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in…
- How to increase strength in the midsection [3:32]
- Understanding abdominal separation [7:22]
- How to flatten your belly [14:35]
- The pelvic floor [22:33]
Understanding Abdominal Separation
Diastasis recti is a common issue that women face. This common abdominal separation happens in pregnancy to allow the abdominal muscles to spread apart to provide room for the expanding belly. While the beauty of the human body’s design accommodates the making of a new life, the after effect often displeases moms. Since the connective tissue of the linea alba often has trouble reconnecting, it can create a forward pooch that is difficult to slim down.
If you aren’t sure whether you have diastasis recti, check out my video on Instagram to see how you can check. It’s important to understand whether you have it or not since many common ab exercises like sit-ups can actually worsen the condition. Healing diastasis recti can be done on your own; however, some severe cases may require a physical therapist to help.
How to Increase Strength in the Midsection and Flatten Your Belly
One of the most common questions I get is how do I flatten my belly?
A strong core means working all of the muscles that connect to the pelvis. All core muscles are anchored by the pelvis, so to work the entire core it is important to not solely focus on the abdominal muscles.
If you are a member of Lindywell, you already know that in Pilates we don’t do sit-ups, yet we focus on core strength. Pilates work deepens your core muscle strength through slow, focused, precise movements. This deep, intentional work affects your entire body and even spills over into the rest of your life resulting in better posture and improved daily function.
It is important to remember that exercise alone won’t help to flatten your belly. Eating a healthy, balanced diet plays a major role. Check out our healthy, delicious, dietitian-created recipes in the app.
How to Work Through Pelvic Floor Issues
Many women suffer in silence about their pelvic floor issues. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located within your pelvis that support your organs. Since a healthy muscle must be able to tighten and release it is important to steer clear of exercises that only focus on tightening the muscles. They must be able to release to function properly.
Pilates is one of the best-kept secrets to pelvic floor health. Lindywell is loaded with workouts that build your core and your pelvic floor strength. Build strength and movement with our pelvic floor exercises. If you aren’t a member yet you can even check out one of my pelvic floor exercises on YouTube.
Hopefully, you have learned a ton from this episode. If you have, please leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast app.
Resources & People Mentioned
- Episode 53 – The Important Connection Between Breath and Posture
- My pelvic floor workout on YouTube
- Blog post – What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Could You Have It?
Follow Lindywell
Join Lindywell
Subscribe to The Balanced Life
share this post
Helping You Break Free!
Get your weekly delivery of inspiration—Pilates, nourishment,
& mindfulness—changing your relationship with food and your body.
