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Transversus abdominis

TVA · Core

Origin
Lower costal cartilages, thoracolumbar fascia, iliac crest and inguinal ligament
Insertion
Linea alba and pubic crest
Action
Compresses the abdomen and stabilises the lumbar spine

The deepest abdominal muscle, wrapping the waist like a corset. It does not move the spine but braces it, which is the goal of planks and hollow holds.

Main exercises

Transversus abdominis anatomy page →

Exercises that train the transversus abdominis

Nearby muscles