Transverse Abdominis Muscle
The most important muscle in your abdomen is the transverse abdominis muscle (TVA). This is located laterally and anterior of your spine and abdomen. You can find the transverse abdominis muscle (TVA) right below your internal oblique. Your TVA is also considered a “core” muscle acting as a natural belt or corset supporting your spine. The TVA cannot generate the strength or force to be considered a prime stabilization msiuscle.
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The most effective workout and exercise for the transverse abdominis muscle (TVA) is the vacuum exercise or drawing in maneuver. During any workout your transverse abdominis involuntarily contracts acting as a natural core stabilizer to support and protect your spine. Studies have also shown that the transverse abdominis alleviates pressure vertically from your spine and discs. The spine is in danger when the TVA is not activated and engaged when doing heavy lifts.
Without the proper activation of the TVA during workouts and exercises, your body fails to recruit and stabilize your spine during functional movements. Muscles in your spine such as the Multifidi work in conjunction with your TVA for support and stabilization.
In recent years, due to popular culture and media, the TVA has been overlooked. More emphasis is put on the “mirror” muscles which are visible such as your rectus abdominis. However, what most people don’t realize is that the TVA not only supports and stabilizes your spine; it also helps pull in your stomach and can help achieve that flatter stomach look. By only training your rectus abdominis it is harder to achieve the flatter stomach look, however, by working out your TVA in conjunction with your internal obliques, external obliques, and rectus abdominis you can achieve that flatter look in no time.
By only performing common ab workouts and exercises such as crunches and sit ups, your TVA won’t be activated or engaged, only making it harder for you to achieve a flatter stomach or six pack.
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