Immediate effects of different types of abdominal exercises on the inter-rectus distance

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The effects of abdominal exercises on the inter-rectus distance are unclear. OBJECTIVE: To compare the inter-rectus distance at rest and during different abdominal exercises: abdominal crunch, abdominal crunch with transversus abdominis pre-activation and hypopressive exercise. METHODS: A transversal experimental study was carried out in 98 healthy adults without diastasis recti abdominis were recruited. Measurements were assessed using ultrasound imaging, and two points were evaluated: just above the umbilicus (U point) and halfway between the U point and the xiphoid (UX point). The inter-rectus distance was measured at rest and during the abdominal exercises. RESULTS: The abdominal crunch with transversus abdominis pre-activation increases the inter-rectus distance in comparison with rest and with abdominal crunch in the U point. CONCLUSION: These results increase the knowledge about the behaviour of the linea alba and inter-rectus distance during abdominal exercises, with practical applications in the rehabilitation of the abdominal wall and low back.