Having beautifully defined abdominal muscles, or a \u2018six-pack\u2019, is an achievement for many fitness enthusiasts, athletes and competitors. Calling the abdominal muscles a six-pack is inaccura. This is because\u00a0there can be\u00a0eight or even 10 segments depending on anatomy and build. (The most important of these muscles is the rectus abdominis.) Visible abdominal muscles is a symbol of physical strength and hard work and dedication in the gym and to good, clean eating habits.<\/p>\n
More commonly referred to as the abdominal muscles or abs, the rectus abdominis\u00a0is a paired muscle running vertically on each side of the abdominal wall which is\u00a0at the front of the abdomen. It connects on the ribs and extends to the pelvis. There is\u00a0connective tissue between these two paired muscles. This is called\u00a0the linea alba<\/a>. This muscle joins the sternum to the pubis and plays a vital role in bending the body sideways and forwards or backwards.<\/p>\n The main function is moving the trunk backwards, forwards and sideways. This muscle\u00a0stabilises the spine and tenses the abdominal wall. It also controls the movement of your pelvis, which affects the curvature of the spine. This\u00a0directly affects your posture.<\/p>\n This muscle is very signficant in – especially –\u00a0exhalation by pulling down on the expiratory breathing muscles. In addition,\u00a0\u00a0it\u00a0helps with coughing, giving birth and vomiting by increasing and controlling intra-abdominal pressure as well as bowel movements.<\/p>\n Pulling the pelvis towards the ribs or the ribs towards the pelvis, depending on which part of the body is mobile and which part is fixed, to perform a crunch or a leg raise, is another function of the muscle. It is therefore important to regularly exercise the rectus abdominis in order to keep is strong, flexible and functioning optimally.<\/p>\n Exercises that allow full range of motion are the most effective in strengthening the rectus abdominis. These are\u00a0 exercises that shorten the distance between the ribs and the pelvis.<\/p>\n Start with simple exercises and perform these\u00a0daily. Increase the\u00a0intensity over time. This\u00a0will help strengthen your rectus abdominis and core overall. These exercises include:<\/p>\nThe Rectus Abdominis Serves Various Important Purposes in the Human Body<\/h2>\n
The Rectus Abdominis also Plays a Vital Part in Breathing,<\/h2>\n
Exercises That Will Help to Strengthen Your Rectus Abdominis<\/h2>\n
\u00a0Basic Knee to Elbow Crunches or Sit-ups and Bicycle Crunches<\/h3>\n