External Anal Sphincter

Posterior pelvic floor cueing may improve posterior thorax expansion by encouraging sacral counternutation at the pelvis. Contracting the external anal sphincter is different from a Kegel. A general butt cheek squeeze is not the intended cue because it can externally rotate the femurs and move the pelvis forward. The intended posterior pelvic floor cue is contraction of the external anal sphincter, often cued as holding in gas. Posterior pelvic floor cueing is most useful early in training when the goal is to restore spinal inhalation mechanics and expansion.