Musculoskeletal Fitness

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Musculoskeletal Fitness and Non-

Locomotor Skills Training


•Bracing the Core
•Bracing vs. Hollowing

Musculoskeletal System

Primary purpose is to produce movement at the joints

A. Components of the Musculoskeletal System:

Muscular System: This includes all types of muscles in the body. Skeletal muscles, in
particular, act on the body’s joints to produce movements. Tendons connect muscles to
bones.

Skeletal System: The main component is bone. Bones articulate with each other, forming
joints that provide both stability and mobility

B. Functions of the Musculoskeletal System:

Muscles:

Movement Production: Muscles allow us to move our limbs, body, and even facial
expressions.
Joint Stabilization: Muscles help stabilize joints during movement.
Maintaining Posture: Muscles work continuously to maintain our body’s upright position.
Body Heat Production: Muscle contractions generate heat.

Bones:

Mechanical Basis for Movements: Bones serve as levers for muscle action.
Framework for the Body: Bones provide structure and shape.
Vital Organs Protection: Bones protect organs like the brain, heart, and lungs.
Blood Cell Production: Bone marrow produces blood cells.
Mineral Storage: Bones store minerals, especially calcium.

Core bracing involves engaging the muscles around your spine to create a rigid midsection.
Think of it as creating a muscular corset that protects your back and nervous system.

It’s especially crucial when moving heavy loads or performing explosive movements that
generate force.

Muscles Involved:

The core muscles responsible for bracing include:

•Transversus abdominis
•Internal and external obliques
•Rectus abdominis

TRY THIS....

How to Brace Your Core:

1.Stand tall with feet hip-width apart.


2.Take a deep breath in through your chest.
3.As you exhale through your stomach, engage
your abdominal muscles as if preparing to be
punched in the stomach.
4.Hold this contraction for 5-10 seconds.
5.Relax and repeat

Bracing vs. Hollowing


Abdominal Bracing:

What It Is: Abdominal bracing involves contracting all the core muscles to stabilize your spine
and pelvis. It creates a solid base of support for your body.
Purpose: Bracing is crucial during exercises and physical activities to protect your back and
reduce the risk of injury.
Imagery: Imagine someone is about to hit you in the stomach—you’d instinctively tighten your
core muscles to brace for impact.
Muscles Involved: Rectus abdominis, internal oblique, external oblique, transverse abdominis,
spinal erectors, pelvic floor, and diaphragm.

Examples: Bird Dog, Side Bridge, Curl Up, Plank, Squat variations.

Abdominal Hollowing:
What It Is: Abdominal hollowing is the opposite of bracing. It involves pulling your belly button
toward your spine, causing your stomach to move inward.

Purpose: Often used for lighter loads or specific exercises.

Technique: Perform it on all fours—breathe in, then exhale while pulling the belly button
toward the spine. Maintain breathing throughout the contraction.

Muscles Involved: Primarily the transverse abdominis and pelvic floor.

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