Q. What exercises specifically target the pelvic floor?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Several exercises specifically target the pelvic floor muscles. It's important to note that proper form and technique are crucial to effectively engage these muscles. Here are some exercises that focus on the pelvic floor:
1. Kegel Exercises:
- Contract and lift the pelvic floor muscles, holding the contraction for a few seconds before releasing. Repeat this contraction and release sequence. Start with short holds and gradually increase the duration.
2. Bridge Exercise:
- Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips toward the ceiling, engaging the glutes and pelvic floor. Hold for a few seconds before lowering your hips back down.
3. Squats:
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and squat down as if sitting back into a chair. Engage the pelvic floor muscles as you rise back up to a standing position.
4. Pelvic Tilts:
- Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Tilt your pelvis upward, engaging the pelvic floor, and then tilt it downward. Repeat this rocking motion.
5. Inner Thigh Squeeze:
- Sit or lie down with your knees bent. Place a soft ball or pillow between your thighs. Squeeze your thighs together, engaging the inner thigh and pelvic floor muscles.
6. Elevator Exercises:
- Imagine your pelvic floor muscles as an elevator. Contract the muscles gently (ground floor), then lift to mid-level, and finally to the top floor. Release in a reverse sequence.
7. Abdominal Breathing:
- Focus on deep abdominal breathing, allowing the diaphragm to descend and the pelvic floor to relax on inhalation. Exhale fully, engaging the pelvic floor muscles as you do.
8. Single-Leg Lifts:
- Lie on your back with knees bent. Lift one leg at a time, engaging the pelvic floor muscles to maintain stability and control.
9. Wall Sit:
- Stand with your back against a wall and lower into a sitting position. Engage the pelvic floor muscles to support your posture.
10. Balloon Breathing:
- Imagine you are inflating a balloon as you inhale through your nose, allowing the pelvic floor to relax. Exhale through your mouth as if deflating the balloon, engaging the pelvic floor.
It's essential to perform these exercises with proper technique, and if you're unsure, consider consulting with a healthcare professional or pelvic floor physical therapist for guidance. Additionally, consistency is key for seeing improvements in pelvic floor strength and function.