Get Down on the (Pelvic) Floor: Kegel Exercises

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Alright, ladies! It’s time to talk about one of the most important muscles in your body. The blush-inducing, giggle-fit-creating, this-ain’t-your-grandmas-workout-routine, Kegel muscle.

So first of all, there is more to the common Kegel than meets the eye. There is an intricate system of muscles down there that keep everything working the way it should. The Kegel, also known as your pelvic floor, is the sling of muscles that hold everything in place. These muscles start and stop urination and can also do certain… things… during intercourse (look these up – your fella will thank you.)

While working your Kegels does help with intimacy (as just about every woman knows thanks to Sex And The City), it can help in other important ways, too. I recently delved into kegel exercises because they help with delivery and postnatal recovery. They also can be key in overcoming incontinence, a prolapse, or the treating of prostate pains. So, even if you are as celibate as a nun, Kegels are important.

Now that we know just how important kegels are, let’s talk about how to do them! There are a few ways to get your sweat on when it comes to working out your nether region. The most obvious (and cheapest) is to simply locate the muscles and clench and release them in 3 second intervals. Keep in mind muscles you are working out are the muscles you use to stop peeing. The clench and release method is great because you can do it virtually anywhere. Eating breakfast? Go for it. On a conference call? Go for it. Cleaning the bathroom? Go for it! No one will have a clue.

If you have a little cash to spare, there are different tools out there to help you out. I recently purchased Geisha Balls made by ft. OK, I didn’t technically buy them but my fiance did so it’s kind of the same thing, right? You might have heard about something like this if you read 50 Shades of Grey (remember that scene when Ana first meets his parents?) Anyway, I love the color scheme, weighted system, and simplicity of them. Geisha balls are nice because you don’t have to worry about them, you just put ‘em in and go about your business. They have different weights so you know you are making progress when you move up to a higher weighted ball.

I came dangerously close to buying a kGoal Smart Kegel Trainer instead of my beloved Geisha Balls. This little bad boy is smartphone compatible and, with the help of its app, gives you feedback, creates workout routines, and even tracks your progress. It’s basically a Swiss army knife, but way more fun. If you have the spare change and want to have the strongest hoo-ha in town, check it out here.

In the end, as with any other muscle, exercise your pelvic floor when you can. While your results won’t be nearly as visible as when you tone other muscles, you definitely won’t regret it.

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