Exercise Your Pelvic Floor the Right Way

21st OF November 2011

If you’re worried about how exercise might affect your pelvic floor, you’re not alone – according to a top Australian physiotherapist, many women start an exercise programme only to develop serious pelvic floor problems as a result.But there is good news! Through effective fitness and strength training you can get your pelvic floor in peak condition this season – and beyond.

Internationally-renowned physiotherapist and author of Inside Out, Michelle Kenway, says women can unknowingly increase their risk of pelvic floor dysfunction through inappropriate exercise.“After gynaecological surgery, childbirth and with menopause, a woman’s pelvic floor becomes increasingly vulnerable. Staying active and exercising effectively can therefore become incredibly confronting for women suffering from pelvic floor problems,” says Kenway.“I hear so many stories from women about how they’ve injured themselves at the gym from doing inappropriate core abdominal and strength exercises, potentially putting their pelvic floor – and overall health – at risk. It’s a daunting prospect for women to exercise with confidence and protect their pelvic floor when they don’t have the resources or knowledge to do it properly.”

The Brisbane-based physiotherapist, who has treated hundreds of women for pelvic floor problems, says her book Inside Out aims to provide an essential women’s guide to pelvic support, helping to educate and inspire women through pelvic floor safe general exercise and improved pelvic floor fitness.“Whether you have pelvic floor dysfunction, are returning to exercise after vaginal surgery, have vaginal or rectal prolapse and are wanting to exercise, are menopausal and exercising for strength and osteoporosis, have exercise associated incontinence or are simply returning to exercise after childbirth, Inside Out teaches you how to choose effective fitness and strength exercises that minimise the risk of pelvic floor injury,” says Kenway.

For more information or to order a copy of Inside Out (RRP of $19.95), visit www.pelvicexercises.com.au

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