The core is known as the group of trunk muscles that surround the spine and abdominal viscera. Abdominal, gluteal, hip girdle, paraspinal, and other muscles work synergistically to provide spinal stability. Over the past few decades, core training has become a popular trend for performance and prevent lumbar spine or musculoskeletal injuries. The importance of core muscle strength and stability for female athletes to prevent lower extremity injuries and has been demonstrated by the literature. In order to completely understand the concept of core stability, it is essential to be aware of the role that each muscle plays in the complete scheme of coordinated movement. The pelvic floor musculature serves as the base of support of the core. In addition, assist with trunk stabilization. However, there is still a lack of knowledge and awareness about the posible link between, pelvic floor muscle, core stability and women´s sport performance.
The neuromuscular and physiological differences observed between male and female athletes indicate the need for sex-specific core programs with specific attention to pelvic floor muscle training. In this context, research has confirmed that female athletes participating in high-impact sports may be at higher risk for pelvic floor sport-related pathologies such as exercise-induced urinary incontinence. Exercise-induced leakage is a specific form of stress urinary incontinence that results from engaging in high-impact or strenuous activities. Incidence of urinary incontinence varies between 28 to 80%, with the highest prevalence in activities which involve motor patterns that include jumping, landing and running. Of note, gymnastics (67%), athletics (62.2%) and trampolining (80%) are the top of the list. The prevalence will depend to a great extent on the type of movement, frequency of training, as well as other risk factors (e.g., body composition, eating disorders). Urinary incontinence is thought to be the consequence of decreased support from the pelvic floor which is due to increased intra-abdominal pressure during high-impact exercise.
Pelvic floor issues are conditions that may limit participation in athletic activities and significantly impact one´s quality of life. Unfortunately, are rarely recognised by sport medicine, coaches and fitness professionals. Understanding the supporting role of the pelvic floor for core stability is essential to provide knowledge and incorporate specific preventive training programs for female athletes. In addition, it is essential to promote early detection for coaches and incorporate preventive pelvic floor training programs for female athletes.