abdominales

Abdominales is a term used to refer to the muscles that form the anterior and lateral wall of the abdomen, as well as to exercises that target this muscle group. The primary abdominal muscles are the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and transversus abdominis. The rectus abdominis runs vertically along the front of the abdomen and is separated into segments by fibrous intersections. The external oblique lies on the outer side of the abdomen with fibers running obliquely downward, while the internal oblique lies beneath it with fibers perpendicular to the external. The transversus abdominis is the deepest layer, with horizontal fibers that help support the abdominal contents. The abdominal wall is reinforced by the rectus sheath and connects to the pelvis and lower ribs. Innervation comes mainly from the thoracoabdominal nerves (T7–T11), the subcostal nerve (T12), and the iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerves (L1). Blood supply is largely provided by the superior and inferior epigastric arteries and smaller segmental arteries.

Functions include maintaining intra-abdominal pressure, protecting and supporting abdominal organs, and stabilizing the trunk. They assist in breathing, especially forced expiration, and play a key role in posture, flexion of the spine, lateral bending, and rotational movements.

Clinical relevance covers conditions such as diastasis recti, which can occur during and after pregnancy, and abdominal wall hernias (umbilical, inguinal, and incisional). Training the abdominal muscles is common in fitness and rehabilitation to improve core stability, though exercises should emphasize proper form and progressive loading to minimize back pain or strain.

Common abdominal exercises include crunches, sit-ups, leg raises, and planks, typically integrated into broader core or resistance training programs.