The corset muscles, also known as the transverse abdominis, are deep abdominal muscles that wrap around the spine and act like a corset, providing stability and support to the core. Engaging these muscles can help improve posture, prevent injury, and increase core strength.

Here’s one common mistake I see people make when they are learning how to “corset” their abs – muscle gripping. Muscle gripping, muscle tension or guarding is a natural response to pain or injury. It is the body’s way of protecting the injured area by reducing movement and stabilizing the affected area. If you’ve been doing that thinking it would strengthen your abs, it won’t; it is a protection mechanism only.

Corseting is entirely different, so let’s recap how to do it correctly today. I will go through a few fundamental exercises to recap so you remember to put them back together throughout the class.