20 Tips to Reduce Stress on Your Pelvic Floor When Exercising

Pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, maintaining urinary and bowel continence, and sexual function. However, certain exercises can put excessive stress on these muscles, leading to pelvic floor dysfunction and related symptoms like urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and prolapse. To prevent these issues, it’s essential to adopt exercise strategies that reduce stress on the pelvic floor. In this blog post, we will discuss some useful Tips to Reduce Stress on Your Pelvic Floor When Exercising to help you exercise without straining your pelvic floor muscles.

20 Tips to Reduce Stress on Your Pelvic Floor When Exercising

1. PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES

Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels, strengthen the muscles that support the pelvic organs. They involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, just like you would when holding urine or stopping a bowel movement. Regular pelvic floor exercises can improve muscle tone and function, reduce incontinence symptoms, and provide support during exercise. To perform Kegels, sit comfortably and squeeze your pelvic floor muscles for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat this 10-20 times, three times a day.

2. BREATHING TECHNIQUES

Breathing techniques can help you engage your core and pelvic floor muscles while reducing stress on them. During exercise, inhale deeply and exhale as you contract your pelvic floor muscles. This technique can also prevent the buildup of intra-abdominal pressure, which can strain the pelvic floor muscles. To practice this technique, inhale deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth while contracting your pelvic floor muscles.

3. MODIFY EXERCISES

Certain exercises can increase pelvic floor stress, including high-impact activities like running, jumping, and heavy lifting. To reduce this stress, modify your exercises to lower impact alternatives. For example, try cycling or swimming instead of running, or opt for lighter weights during strength training exercises. Additionally, avoid exercises that put excessive pressure on the pelvic floor, such as deep squats, crunches, and sit-ups.

4. USE PROPER TECHNIQUE

Using proper exercise technique can prevent unnecessary stress on the pelvic floor muscles. If you’re unsure about the right technique, seek guidance from a certified fitness professional or pelvic floor physiotherapist. They can help you modify exercises and teach you proper posture and breathing techniques.

5. HYDRATION AND TOILETING

Proper hydration and toileting habits can also reduce pelvic floor stress during exercise. Make sure to drink plenty of water before and during exercise, as dehydration can cause constipation and strain the pelvic floor muscles. Additionally, empty your bladder and bowels before exercising to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the pelvic floor.

6. PROGRESS SLOWLY

When starting a new exercise routine or introducing new movements, it’s important to progress slowly. Gradually increase the intensity, duration, and difficulty of your workouts over time. This allows your pelvic floor muscles to adapt and strengthen without excessive strain.

7. BALANCE YOUR FITNESS ROUTINE

Balance is key when it comes to exercise and pelvic floor health. Incorporate a variety of exercises into your fitness routine, including low-impact activities like yoga, Pilates, and tai chi. These exercises focus on core strength, flexibility, and controlled movements, which can be beneficial for the pelvic floor.

8. AVOID CONSTIPATION

Constipation can increase pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to discomfort and strain. To prevent constipation, consume a diet rich in fiber, stay hydrated, and establish regular bowel habits. If needed, consult a healthcare professional for guidance on managing and preventing constipation.

9. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY

Pay attention to your body’s signals during exercise. If you experience pain, discomfort, or heaviness in your pelvic area, it’s important to modify or stop the exercise. Pushing through pain can exacerbate pelvic floor issues. Listen to your body’s cues and make adjustments accordingly.

10. PRACTICE PROPER POSTURE

Maintaining good posture during exercise is crucial for minimizing stress on the pelvic floor. Whether you’re standing, sitting, or performing exercises, focus on aligning your spine, engaging your core muscles, and avoiding excessive arching or rounding of your back. Good posture helps distribute the load evenly throughout your body, reducing strain on the pelvic floor.

11. INCLUDE PELVIC FLOOR PHYSIOTHERAPY

If you’re experiencing pelvic floor issues or have concerns about exercising with a weak pelvic floor, consider seeking guidance from a pelvic floor physiotherapist. They can assess your condition, provide personalized exercises and techniques, and guide you on how to exercise safely while minimizing stress on your pelvic floor.

12. USE SUPPORTIVE APPAREL

Wearing supportive apparel can help alleviate stress on the pelvic floor during exercise. Invest in well-fitting sports bras, supportive underwear, and comfortable workout attire that provides adequate support to your pelvic area. This can help minimize excessive movement and reduce strain on your pelvic floor muscles.

13. INCORPORATE LOW-IMPACT CARDIO

Instead of solely relying on high-impact cardio exercises, incorporate low-impact alternatives into your routine. Activities like brisk walking, elliptical training, stationary cycling, or using a rowing machine can provide cardiovascular benefits without placing excessive stress on the pelvic floor.

14. STAY WELL-HYDRATED

Maintaining proper hydration is important for pelvic floor health. Drinking an adequate amount of water helps maintain optimal bowel regularity and prevents constipation, which can strain the pelvic floor. Aim to drink enough water throughout the day, including before, during, and after exercise.

15. CONSIDER PELVIC FLOOR-FRIENDLY EXERCISES

Certain exercises are considered more pelvic floor-friendly than others. These include exercises that focus on core stability, such as planks, side planks, bird dogs, and glute bridges. Additionally, exercises that engage the deep abdominal muscles, such as transverse abdominal activations, can help support the pelvic floor.

16. TAKE REGULAR BREAKS

When engaging in exercises that involve repetitive movements or prolonged periods of exertion, take regular breaks to allow your pelvic floor muscles to rest and recover. Listen to your body’s signals and give yourself enough time to recover between sets or activities.

17. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT

Maintaining a healthy body weight is beneficial for reducing stress on the pelvic floor. Excess weight can put additional pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to increased strain. Focus on maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

18. MANAGE STRESS LEVELS

Stress can contribute to pelvic floor tension and dysfunction. Engage in stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or engaging in activities you enjoy to help reduce overall stress levels. By managing stress, you can also positively impact your pelvic floor health.

19. SCHEDULE REST DAYS

Allowing your body adequate time to rest and recover is crucial for pelvic floor health. Incorporate rest days into your exercise routine to give your muscles, including the pelvic floor, the opportunity to repair and rebuild. Overtraining can lead to increased stress on the pelvic floor and potentially worsen symptoms.

20. CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST

If you’re experiencing persistent pelvic floor symptoms or have concerns about exercising with a weak pelvic floor, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or a pelvic floor specialist. They can provide personalized advice, exercises, and treatments tailored to your specific needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, taking steps to reduce stress on your pelvic floor when exercising is crucial for maintaining its health and preventing pelvic floor dysfunction. By incorporating the tips mentioned in this blog, you can exercise safely and effectively while minimizing strain on your pelvic floor muscles.

Remember to prioritize pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, to strengthen and support these muscles. Practice proper breathing techniques to engage your core and pelvic floor while reducing pressure. Modify exercises to lower impact alternatives and ensure you’re using the correct technique with the help of a professional if needed.

Additionally, maintaining good hydration, listening to your body’s signals, and practicing proper posture are essential. Balancing your fitness routine, managing stress levels, and seeking guidance from a pelvic floor specialist can further contribute to pelvic floor health.

By following these tips and being mindful of your pelvic floor during exercise, you can reduce the risk of pelvic floor dysfunction, urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and prolapse. Prioritize your pelvic floor health and enjoy a safe and effective exercise routine that supports your overall well-being.