Yoga Anatomy

Core Activation Part I: The Pelvic Floor


Time: 3 mins 51 secs

How do we ensure that we don't get injured when we do yoga? This Core Activation Series will take you through the step by step process of how to become aware of your core muscles, how to strengthen them and how to use them to protect your body from injury.

Core Activation Part II: The Transversus Abdominus


Time: 3 mins 49 secs

Many experts consider the transversus abdominus to be the most important and most effective muscle for providing support for the lower back. It wraps around the waste and cinches in like a girdle, applying pressure as it squeezes, encouraging the spine to bend in a healthy way.

Core Activation Part III: The Multifidus


Time: 2 mins 44 secs

The Multifidus is a deep core muscle that provides support from the back, pulling the lower spine toward the center of the body. When working together with the other core muscles, they create a cylinder of pressure through the lower part of the torso.

Core Activation Part IV: Putting it all Together


Time: 4 mins 18 secs

Once we learn how to activate the core muscles individually, we can then contract them together to effectively provide support for the spine. Watch this video to see how its done.

Core Activation Part V: The Fragile Egg


Time: 2 mins 34 secs

One of the keys to activating the core muscles in an effective, healthy way is learning how to hold them on gently - at about 50% of their maximum. This way we know that we are not incorporating other muscles that dont provide support and we also know that they won't tire out quickly.

Core Activation Part VI: Incorporating Movement


Time: 3 mins 9 secs

Can we activate our core muscles when we do anything... from doing yoga to lifting heavy objects to playing with our children? This video will start you off on that path. There is much to learn as you explore the relationship between your core muscles and the rest of your body.

Core Activation Part VII: Taking It Up A Notch!


Time: 1 mins 53 secs

Once you have practiced the exercises you learned in Core Activation Part IV, move onto this one, where we move the legs simultaneously, It is considerably more difficult, so dont rush into it. Make sure you can keep your core muscles engaged throughout.

Core Activation Part VIII: Summary


Time: 1 mins 34 secs

Why do we need to know this? When will it come into use? How does my body benefit from learning how to activate and strengthen the core muscles? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this video.