How Strong is Your Core?

This question is a loaded one? Let me unpack it a bit here.

What does Core mean to me?

The inner core is the “stability” system and is made up of the diaphragm, transverse abdominis, multifidus, and pelvic floor muscle groups working together to support us when we go to move our bodies.

The outer core system is what women generally think of when they think of the core. Possibly the six-pack muscles or obliques. I do love a good six-pack, but for the sake of this discussion, we will focus our attention on the inner core.

Some common symptoms you may see if your inner core is not functioning properly

• Leaking (gas or urine) when you sneeze, run, jump
• Chronic Constipation
• The “mommy pooch”
• Diastasis Recti
• Back or hip pain
• Pelvic Pain

Is it all about strength?

The answer is NO. Sometimes you will have these symptoms if your inner core is overactive and cannot relax fully. Or it could be a coordination issue and the timing of the muscles firing is just a smidge off.

The good news

There are solutions!

It is first important to know what your pelvic floor is doing. Is it weak/overactive/uncoordinated?

Some questions that may help guide you:

Overactive

• Suffer from constipation
• Pain with sex or tampon insertion
• May have leaking during exertional activities (running, jumping, sneezing)
• Experience the “2nd pee” (you pee but after you stop voiding feel like you could void a little more)

Weak Pelvic Floor

• You have a difficult time feeling your pelvic floor contract and relax
• May experience heaviness in the vagina
• Sex just doesn’t feel the same
• Leaking with exertional activities (running, jumping, sneezing)

Uncoordinated Pelvic floor

• With activity, your leaking or symptoms may come on right away
• When tested, you have a good pelvic floor contraction and relaxation but timing is off

This is not an exhaustive list but a good starting place!

What do you do next?

Here is a handy-dandy quiz you can take to see how well your inner core is functioning!

I have been working hard on a project for years helping moms rehab their inner core post-baby and I am about ready to birth it out into the world 🙂 ! If you are interested in being personally notified when I release this all-encompassing A to Z guide, please email me or DM me on my social media accounts @drtarynkilty.

Please reach out to me with any questions!

You are rocking it mom!