The Abdominal Muscles and Many other Associated Components

Indirect spinal reinforcement is also provided by four sets of abdominal muscles. The abdominals surround the lower torso and connect the pelvis to the ribs, stabilizing the spine and allowing the body to bend and twist. The outermost layer, the rectus abdominis, is the easiest to activate but it needs to be controlled by the deeper layers.

In addition to the many ligaments, tendons and muscles mentioned here, the spine receives indirect support from the leg muscles, notably the quadriceps at the front of the thighs and the hamstrings, also known as the semitendinosus, at the back of the thighs. These muscles influence the degree of pelvic tilt and so have a bearing on your posture.

Trapezius runs down the back of the neck and along the shoulders. It is used to extend the head. Latissimus dorsi runs from the lower chest to the lumbar region. It draws the arm backwards, pulls the shoulder down and back and the body upwards.

Erector spinae is important as the muscle is at the back of the neck, chest and abdomen. It extends the spine and holds the body upright. When it acts on one side only, it bends the spice to that side. Transversus abdominis is a deep internal muscle that runs across the abdomen. It holds the internal organs in place.

External oblique is a side muscle of the abdomen. It compresses the abdomen and is used when moving the torso in any direction. Rectus abdominis runs vertically down the front of the abdomen, supporting the internal organs and drawing the front of the pelvis upwards. Adductor is the inner thigh muscle draws the leg inwards.

Gluteus maximus forms the buttocks. It is important for maintaining an upright posture and in walking, running and jumping. Quadriceps runs down the middle of the front of the thigh. It acts in opposition to the semitendinosus.

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