A cross sectional cohort pilot study of the activation and endurance of the transversus abdominis muscle in three populations

Abstract

The Transversus Abdominis (TrA) muscle is recognised in the literature as playing a vital and protective role in maintaining a healthy core and aiding lumbar biomechanics in the dampening of external forces applied to the lumbar spine. Pilates purports to employ the principles of core training yet there remains a deficit in the literature despite its popularity in rehabilitation and fitness industries. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Pilates method in training the TrA in comparison to a moderately active population that regularly exercises in a gym environment, as well as a sedentary control.