A differential electromyographic analysis of rectus abdominis muscle segments during performance of different test movements: A randomized within participants experimental study

To compare surface EMG activity of upper & lower portion of Rectus Abdominis activity during 4 test movements viz, trunk curl up (TCU), Leg Lowering, Abdominal Muscle Lift (AML), Leg Raise. To provide the biomechanical basis for rationalized clinical testing & training of abdominals. To find out an activity producing optimal & maximal activation of abdominals.

Study design & setting: Randomized, repeated measure within subject, experimental study. All measurements were performed in hospital EMG laboratory.

Study population: 20 normal healthy female chosen randomly who were capable to perform all test movements comfortably.

Procedure: EMG data was collected from Upper & Lower portion of Rectus Abdominis muscle during performance of 4 tests movements by the subjects.

Outcome measures: Peak EMG amplitude during maximum recruitment of muscle.

Results: Study showed differences in the activation of rectus abdominis during 4 tasks. Amongst all the exercises Abdominal muscle lift (95% CI=82.5–93.8, 89.7–98.2) showed greater activation followed by Trunk curl up (95% CI=80.4–97.3, 74.8–93.3), Leg raise (95% CI=57.2–74.09, 63.3–79.4) & leg lowering (95% CI=53.8–70.4, 52.9–71.7).

Conclusion: No significant differences in the activation of two portions. Rectus Abdominis activity is maximum during abdominal muscle lift.