Abdominals - Anatomy 

Which muscle groups are part of the abdominals ?

• There are four muscle groups: rectus abdominis muscle (Musculus rectus abdominis), external oblique abdominal muscle (Musculus obliquus externus abdominis), internal oblique abdominal muscle (Musculus obliquus internus abdominis), and transversal abdominal muscle (Musculus transversus abdominis).

Where is the rectus abdominis muscle located and what is it responsible for ?

• The rectus abdominis muscle is the biggest one within the abdominals. Both longitudinal cords stretch from top to bottom (from sternum to pubic bone) and are divided by thin tendons. Main functions are bending the torso forwards as well as approach of thorax and pelvis.

Where is the external oblique abdominal muscle located and what is it responsible for ?

• The external oblique or lateral abdominal muscle stretches from outside of lower ribs in diagonal direction to the pelvis. Main functions of the external oblique abdominal muscle are bending the torso, bending to the same side, and rotation to the opposite side.

Where is the internal oblique abdominal muscle located and what are its functions ?

• The internal oblique or lateral abdominal muscle hides almost completely underneath the external abdominal muscle and is based on insides of the ribs. It supports the rectus abdominis muscle and is also responsible for bending the torso, like the external oblique abdominal muscle.

Where is the transversal abdominal muscle located and what are its functions ?

• The transversal abdominal muscle lies deeply underneath the lateral abdominal muscle cords. The fibres run along laterally-transversally up to the tendons of the erector spinae. It presses together the abdomen and is responsible for lowering the ribs.

Get to know more in these categories:

- General questions about abdominals

- Nutrition tips regarding the topic abdominals

- Exercise tips regarding the topic abdominals

- Training tips for beautiful abdominals