Musculoskeletal Fitness
Musculoskeletal Fitness
Musculoskeletal Fitness
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
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:
•Transversus abdominis
•Internal and external obliques
•Rectus abdominis
TRY THIS....
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.
Technique: Perform it on all fours—breathe in, then exhale while pulling the belly button
toward the spine. Maintain breathing throughout the contraction.