Differences in Abdominal Muscle Thickness, Strength, and Endurance in Persons Who Are Runners, Active, and Inactive

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Sports Science

Background:

• Core musculature, including abdominal muscles, is vital for efficient movement, particularly in running.
• Both abdominal muscle strength and endurance are key components contributing to running efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate differences and relationships in abdominal muscle thickness, strength, and endurance among runners, active individuals, and inactive individuals.
• To compare these parameters across different activity levels to understand their impact on core function.

Main Methods:

• A quantitative cohort study involving 78 participants aged 18-27, divided into runners, active, and inactive groups.
• Abdominal muscle thickness was assessed using diagnostic ultrasound, strength via dynamometry, and endurance through a side plank test.
• Statistical analyses included ANOVA, t-tests, and correlation coefficients to determine significance (P < 0.05).

Main Results:

• Runners showed significantly greater internal oblique muscle thickness (at rest and during contraction) compared to both active and inactive groups.
• No significant differences in overall muscle strength were found among the three groups.
• The running group demonstrated significantly longer plank hold times, indicating superior abdominal muscle endurance.

Conclusions:

• Distinct differences exist in abdominal muscle utilization across running, active, and inactive populations.
• Runners possess thicker internal oblique muscles and enhanced abdominal muscle endurance.
• Targeted oblique endurance training could be beneficial for improving running performance.