No, it can’t. But why?

We’ve been told for decades that Kegels will strengthen and fix our pelvic floor issues. But even if performed correctly (which they often are not) just continually contracting a few muscles won’t fix the global* issue.

In some cases, they can make matters worse, because if what we are dealing with is an overactive pelvic floor (one that stays in a contracted state), we are poking the bear, aggravating a pelvic floor that is already cranky. Overactive/held muscles interfere with the movement of the breath and the internal pressure system and must be released before adding strengthening.

*Global referring to the entire body.

 

Our Pelvic Floor Muscles Do Not Work Alone

Our pelvic floor muscles do not work independently of the rest of our bodies. In fact, they are part of the complex core musculature and our intra-abdominal pressure system. They are responsible for movement through the pelvis and legs, and work with all the other muscles that attach to the pelvis.

 

The Complexity of the Core

A common misconception is that our core consists of only our abdominal muscles when the abs only make up the front of our core cannister. The multifidus muscles comprise the back of the canister with the respiratory diaphragm acting as the top. And maybe you guessed it: the pelvic floor makes up the bottom. This core cannister houses our intra-abdominal pressure system which stabilizes and supports our spine during movement and strenuous activities and works intimately with the breath. Poor posture, inefficient breathing patterns, griping/clenching muscles and muscular imbalances affect how our core and pressure function and greatly affect the pelvic floor.

 

How Do We “Fix” Our Pelvic Floor?

Exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor go far beyond the pelvic floor itself. To properly balance the pelvic floor, exercises should include those that focus on efficient breathing, relaxation, align posture and positioning, and create strong and supple muscles globally with a focus on the core and the lower body.

 

Visit my Pelvic Floor Online Course to preview free lessons and learn more.