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Updated: Feb 19, 2026

Muscle Function Obtained with Motion Mode Ultrasound and Surface Electromyography during Core Endurance Exercise
Published on: August 25, 2022
Trunk and hip muscle activation during yoga poses: Implications for physical therapy practice
Debra Beazley1, Shilpa Patel1, Brent Davis1
1Department of Physical Therapy, Augusta University, 987 St Sebastian Way, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
Objective:
To determine and compare activation of core muscles during yoga to traditional back exercises.
Methods:
Surface electromyography was used to quantify activation of the rectus abdominis (RA), abdominal obliques (AO), lumbar extensors (LE), and gluteus maximus (GMX) during four yoga poses. Data were expressed as 100% of a maximum voluntary isometric contraction. Separate analyses of variance with repeated measures were used to compare muscle activity across each exercise.
Results:
Subjects generated greater RA (P < 0.0001) and AO (P < 0.0001) activity during the Plank. They generated greater AO activity (P < 0.0001) during the Upward-Facing Dog than the Chair and Dominant-Side Warrior 1. LE activity was greatest (P < 0.0001) during the Chair. GMX activity was similar (P = 0.09) during all exercises.
Conclusion:
Yoga poses may help improve core endurance and strength. Clinicians may use these data when developing and implementing an evidence-based core exercise program for individuals who prefer a yoga treatment strategy.
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