The differences of the abdominal muscles at rest between the lying position and lying on a stretch pole

Abstract

[Purpose] We investigated methods for strengthening the transverse abdominis. [Subjects] Twelve healthy subjects participated in this research. [Method] The thicknesses of the external oblique, internal oblique and transverse abdominis were measured on both the right and left sides using ultrasonography. The position of the measurements were as follows: A) the supine position, B) lying on a stretch pole (with upper limb support), C) lying on a stretch pole (without upper limb support). [Results] The thicknesses of the transverse abdominis showed significant difference among the positions, but there was no significant difference in the external oblique and internal oblique muscles. The transverse abdominis showed a significant difference between A and B, and A and C. [Conclusion] A stretch pole was effective for exercising the transverse abdominis.