While the words “core muscles” are commonplace, they are
often misunderstood. People may refer to the most superficial abdominal muscle,
the rectus abdominus, as a core muscle.
The rectus abdominus is responsible for spinal flexion. But Computer Age
ergonomics have caused us to over use this muscle. We sit flexed at our desk,
then we go to the gym and we flex some more while performing traditional
crunches.
Our “true” core muscles, the transverse abdominal muscle
(TVA), the pelvic floor and the multifidus lie deeper in the body. At The University of Queensland, Paul Hodges
conducted research about the connection between having an active TVA and the
absence of low back pain. He performed muscle tests comparing subjects with bad
backs and healthy backs. His research team discovered that subjects without
back pain activated their transverse abdominal muscle prior to contracting
other muscle groups. The TVA provided stability for the movement. Subjects with
low back pain activated their TVA after the other muscles contracted. Since
stability was compromised, the back muscles had to absorb the shock that
resulted from wobbly movements.
These core muscles work on a “use it or lose it”
principle. If you’ve been practicing
Pilates for a while, the “scooping “of the abdominal area performed while
exhaling activates the TVA. But “cheating” is often possible. The rectus gladly
takes over if the core muscles fatigue. But they won’t bail you out when you’re
working on the stability ball!