For active women who've experienced that embarrassing leak during a heavy lift, this episode challenges everything you thought you knew about pelvic floor function. Diving deep into the science of bracing mechanics, Christina Previtt unravels the fascinating relationship between breath, core tension, and pelvic health that revolutionizes how we approach strength training.

Forget the simplistic advice to "just do more Kegels." Research reveals a surprising truth: women who experience incontinence during lifting often have stronger pelvic floors than those who don't. Christina explains why coordination—not weakness—is frequently the real culprit, and how understanding the entire core canister system transforms both rehabilitation and performance.

The Valsalva maneuver (that instinctive breath hold during heavy efforts) has been unnecessarily vilified, especially for pregnant and postpartum women. Christina presents compelling evidence that this natural bracing strategy isn't inherently problematic—it's a trainable skill that, when properly executed, can actually support pelvic health while enhancing performance.

Whether you're an expecting mother concerned about safe lifting, a postpartum athlete working to rebuild your foundation, or simply someone who wants to lift without leaking, this episode provides actionable insights that bridge the all-too-common gap between rehabilitation and performance training. By understanding how proper bracing distributes pressure throughout your core system rather than directing it downward, you'll discover how to protect your pelvic floor while still challenging yourself in the gym.

Ready to transform both how you think about and how you feel during your lifts? This episode might just be the missing piece in your training and recovery puzzle. Subscribe to Barbell Mamas for more evidence-based conversations at the intersection of motherhood, strength, and pelvic health—where we're redefining what's possible for athletic women through every stage of life.

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