[ENTROPY]

Originally Posted by Urban

I remember reading that a large portion of the abdominal muscles (all four obliques, both abs, etc.) are transverse in nature.

The abdominal muscle fibers run in three different directions: diagonally, vertically and horizontally, which allows for multi directional strength expression and the stabilization of the trunk.

The Transversus abdominis is so called as a result of the direction of its fibers, hence “transverse.”

Originally Posted by Urban

I beleive he meant to say that most muscles in that region were meant for rotation. is this accurate?

To a degree yes, however technically no. As an example, even though the rectus abdominis behaves transversally to a degree during certain movements, its primary function however, remains that of flexion.

Originally Posted by Urban

would training rotational movements be of greater benefit to core conditioning than flexion? I know the correct answer is both, but work with me here...

Yes, both given the multi directional strength expression required for optimal functional strength and stability.

Originally Posted by Urban

sounds kinda like you're agreeing with my author from above, assuming those layers of flat muscles are transverse.

The arrangement of the external and internal obliques is transverse to a degree, however their placement is primarily diagonal.

Originally Posted by Urban

trouble is, I have yet to find a way of effectively loading this crunch. Interesting info though.

That’s one of the reasons why I don’t perform the movement personally.

Originally Posted by Urban

Even your rushed dialogues are extremely appreciated. This is a fine contribution to the conversation. Sadly, much more in depth and I might be lost. I know your extremely busy, so I appreciate any amount of your time you can devote.

I’ve learned much from you bro, as such your comments are much appreciated…

[ENTROPY]

Originally Posted by antant

Entropy, you said a hernia is a protrusion through the abdominal wall...I got a picture in my head where someone's guts spill out of their belly button.

ROFL!!! You’ve got a creative mind.

Originally Posted by antant

I was under the impression that hernia's happen only in the very lower sections of the abdominal wall, where the muscles hold the organs up?? (I have no idea what I'm talking about, but when my bro was just a toddler, he ended up getting a hernia and one side of his ball-sac inflated because of the pressure that was unleashed from the protrusion.)

The lower abdominal region is more vulnerable as a result of the muscular arrangement, etc, however that is not to say that the upper abdominal region is exempt from hernias.

Originally Posted by antant

So working the core overall would be beneficial, but would something like weighted leg lifts (or weighted rotational leg lifts?) be more concerned with strenthening the muscles that prevent hernia?

I see what you’re saying.

If you’re hernia prone for example, then a movement which has a greater focus on the lower region would technically address hernia concerns to a greater degree theoretically. Even so, I’m a firm believer in balance and function and would feel confident with a well rounded core strengthening routine, as opposed to simply focusing on lower ab movements.

Originally Posted by antant

I guess this would be a very very bad example of a hernia that is not part of the lower abdominal wall.....guess I answered my own question there....Let me know if I'm not allowed to post this pic...

Such shock tactics are needed at times.