How to Pull & Stretch the Abdomen

Your abdomen, also called your core, is responsible for helping your entire body maintain stability, balance and central strength. Your ab muscles run from the bottom of your thorax to the top of your pelvis and from the mid-line of your navel to the lower sides of your back. Pulling and stretching these muscles help them to remain flexible and strong, which can enhance your performance during various activities, exercises and sports.

Instructions

  1. Lying (Prone) Abdominal Stretch

    • 1

      Stretch and pull your abdomen by performing lying abdominal stretches. Lie prone on the floor or on a mat with legs straight and your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • 2

      Place your hands on the floor at the sides of your shoulders. Your arms should be bent as if you're getting ready to lift up from the floor.

    • 3

      Push your torso slowly upward, keeping your pelvis on the floor and your head facing upward.

    • 4

      Hold the stretch for 10 to 15 seconds. Slowly return to the starting position, completing one rep. Perform three reps per session and one session per day.

    Lying Bent-Leg Oblique Stretch

    • 5

      Perform lying bent oblique stretches to pull and stretch your oblique muscles. Lie with your back on the floor or on a mat. Bend your knees to 90 degrees, placing your feet flat on floor.

    • 6

      Position both your knees and hips to one side, allowing one knee to touch the floor and the other to rest on top it.

    • 7

      Keep your shoulders flat on the floor while maintaining the stretch. Hold the stretch for 10 to 15 seconds before switching to the other side.