The pelvic floor refers to a group of muscles that form a supportive sling at the base of the pelvis. These muscles play a crucial role in supporting various organs in the pelvic region, including the bladder, uterus (in females), and rectum. The pelvic floor muscles also contribute to maintaining urinary and bowel continence, and they play a role in sexual function.
Key functions of the pelvic floor muscles include:
Support: The pelvic floor provides support to the organs in the pelvic cavity, helping to keep them in their proper positions. This is particularly important for maintaining pelvic organ health and preventing issues like prolapse.
Continence: The muscles of the pelvic floor contribute to bladder and bowel control. They help control the release of urine and feces, and they play a role in preventing involuntary leakage.
Sexual Function: The pelvic floor muscles are involved in sexual function. They contribute to arousal, support sexual organs, and play a role in orgasm.
Stability: The pelvic floor is part of the body’s core muscles, working in conjunction with the deep abdominal muscles and the muscles of the back. This contributes to overall stability and good posture.
Pelvic floor exercises, can help strengthen these muscles. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles to improve their tone and function. If you have concerns about your pelvic floor health or are experiencing symptoms related to pelvic floor dysfunction, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a pelvic floor physical therapist for guidance and personalised advice.
Pilates can play a key role in helping improve your pelvic floor function. IN Pilates we work on the connection between your breath and the movement, by learning these simple breathing and movement techniques you can enhance your pelvic floor strength and develop a deeper understanding of how your body works and moves.
Get in touch with me today for your free pelvic floor guide or to join my classes.
The core principles of Pilates include concentration, control, centering, precision, breath, and flow. The exercises often involve controlled movements and a specific breathing pattern. The primary emphasis is on the core muscles, which include the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, hips, and buttocks and pelvic floor. However, Pilates also works on other muscle groups, promoting overall body strength and flexibility.
Get in touch with my on hannah@beyondthestudiopilates.co.uk if you have any questions about my classes.
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