Genx Notes

Abdominal muscle

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Genx

in Glossary

Abdominal muscles, commonly referred to as abs, are a group of muscles located in the front of the abdomen that play a crucial role in supporting the trunk, allowing movement, and maintaining posture. They also protect vital internal organs and assist in processes like breathing, sneezing, and coughing.

Main Abdominal Muscles

There are four primary muscles that make up the abdominal wall:

1. Rectus Abdominis

  • This is the most well-known abdominal muscle and is often referred to as the “six-pack” muscle because of its segmented appearance.
  • It runs vertically along the front of the abdomen and helps with flexion of the spine (bending forward), such as during sit-ups or crunches.

2. External Obliques

  • These are located on each side of the rectus abdominis and run diagonally downward from the ribs to the pelvis.
  • They are responsible for rotating the torso and bending it sideways (lateral flexion).

3. Internal Obliques

  • Found just underneath the external obliques, these muscles run diagonally upward from the pelvis to the ribs.
  • Like the external obliques, they assist in rotating and bending the torso but also help stabilize the core.

4. Transverse Abdominis

  • This is the deepest layer of abdominal muscle, running horizontally across the abdomen.
  • It acts like a corset, compressing and stabilizing the abdominal contents and providing core stability.

Functions of Abdominal Muscles

  1. Core Stability: The abs work together with other muscles (like those in your back) to stabilize your spine and pelvis during movement.
  2. Trunk Flexion: The rectus abdominis helps flex your spine forward.
  3. Lateral Flexion & Rotation: The oblique muscles allow you to twist and bend your torso sideways.
  4. Breathing: The transverse abdominis plays a role in forced exhalation by compressing the organs and pushing air out of the lungs.
  5. Protection: These muscles protect internal organs by forming a strong muscular wall around them.

Exercises to Strengthen Abdominal Muscles

Common exercises that target these muscles include:

  • Crunches
  • Planks
  • Bicycle Crunches
  • Leg Raises
  • Russian Twists

Strengthening your abdominal muscles is important for overall fitness, posture, balance, and preventing lower back pain.

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