Electromyographic activity of rectus abdominis muscles during dynamic Pilates abdominal exercises.

Objective: To assess the electrical behaviour of the upper rectus abdominis (URA) and lower rectus abdominis (LRA) by electromyography (EMG) during the following dynamic Pilates abdominal exercises: roll up, double leg stretch, coordination, crisscross and foot work. The results were compared with EMG findings of traditional abdominal exercises (sit up and crunch).

Methods: Seventeen female subjects (with no experience of the Pilates method) were recruited.