External oblique muscle of the abdomen

The human body is an engineering wonder, made up of many muscles that work together to guarantee movement and stability. Among these muscles, the external oblique muscle of the abdomen plays a crucial role in the function and aesthetics of the abdominal region.

In this article, we will explore the definition, function, anatomy, the importance of this muscle and how to integrate it effectively into a packaging program.

What is the external oblique muscle?

The external oblique muscle is one of the muscles of the abdominal wall, essential for the movement and stability of the trunk. It is located on the sides of the abdomen, which extends from the lower part of the ribs to the iliac bone.

Its shape is often compared to that of a fan, with muscle fibers that extend diagonally downwards and inward. This muscle is often considered one of the main oblique muscles, next to its internal counterpart.

Anatomy of the external oblique muscle

• Origin : This muscle stands in the last eight ribs, ranging from the fifth to the twelfth. This great origin allows him to generate substantial force during movements.
• Inclusion : Adapts to the white line of the abdomen, which is a strip of central connective tissue, as well as on the iliac crest and on public. These attack points allow a wide range of movements.
• Innervation : The muscle is innervated by the intercostal nerves, which come from the spinal cord, in particular from the T7 nerves to T11, as well as by the Iliohypogastric nerve and the ilio-genikenguinal nerve.

Main functions

The external oblique muscle performs different essential functions:

1. Movement : Allows the rotation and lateral flexion of the trunk. For example, when you turn your chest to look behind you or to lift an object on the one hand, this muscle is activated. It is also involved in the flexion movements before, like when you look forward.
2. Stabilization : Collaborating with other muscles of the abdominal wall, such as the right muscle of the abdomen and the oblique internal, helps to stabilize the trunk during physical activities, such as lifting or breed. Good trunk stability is essential to prevent injuries, especially during intense sports activities.
3. Internal protection of the organ : This muscle contributes to the protection of internal organs forming a sort of muscle «cage» around the abdomen. It has a crucial role in intra-abdominal pressure, which is particularly important during physical effort.
4. Breathing : Although it is not the main respiratory muscle, it plays a role in the forced deadline, helping to expel the air from the lungs. This is particularly relevant during activities such as songs or high intensity exercises, which require precise breathing control.

Importance in fitness and health

The external oblique muscle is often targeted in physical conditioning programs. Exercises such as twists, oblique creaks and legs of the legs can strengthen this muscle, which is beneficial for:

• Improvement of posture : A strong trunk helps to maintain good posture, as well as the risk of back pain. A correct posture is not only crucial for comfort, but it also affects breathing and digestion.
• Increase in sports performance : In many sports, an effective rotation of the trunk is essential for performance. If hitting a ball, launching a javelin or even for daily activities such as gardening, good oblique force can make a significant difference.
• Aesthetics of the body : For those who try to sculpt their abdomen, the oblique developed can contribute to a toned and balanced physique. A well -defined abdomen is often considered a symbol of strength and health.

Exercise by targeting the external oblique muscle

To strengthen external obliques, there are several effective exercises:

1. Trunk twists : In a sitting or standing position, the rotations from the chest to the other, keeping the lower body stable. This can be done with or without weight to vary the intensity.
2. CRICCHIOLA OBLQUES : Lie on the back with your knees bent. By contrasting the obliques, it carries a shoulder on the opposite knee while keeping the other shoulder on the ground. Alternate the sides to hit the two external obliques.
3. Side card : In the position of the scoreboard on the side, supports the weight on an forearm and on the edge of the foot. Keep this position for 20-30 seconds, then change aside. This exercise not only strengthens the obliques, but also the stabilizing muscles of the trunk.
4. Russes stage shots : Sitting on the ground with the bent knees, slightly tilts the back of the torso. Keep a weight in front of you and turn the upper body from one side to the other. This strongly involves external obliques by improving balance.
5. Survey on the legs with rotation : Lying on the back, lifts the legs while turning the pelvis towards one side, then the other. This combines the work of lower ABS and external obliques.