‘Don’t ignore your pelvic floor’

The pelvic floor (PF) is a sling of muscle like a hammock which runs from your pubic bone, under your bits and bobs, to your coccyx (tailbone). It is part of the ‘core’, and works with the deep abdominal muscles and the diaphragm to strengthen the spine and give support to the bowel, uterus and bladder.

This little muscle has power, as it controls the release of wee, poo and wind, and aids sensation during sex. And, lads, you’re not out of the woods either. If the PF is weak, then that often heralds erectile dysfunction issues.

So why does it get weak? Pregnancy, childbirth, obesity, hormone changes (reduction in testosterone and oestrogen as we age) all play their part, but so does poor general core strength. Running or weight-lifting with weak stomach muscles and shoddy technique can, in some cases, ultimately lead to a full-blown prolapse.

What can be done and is it ever too late to start? Absolutely not, says Kate Smart (katesmart fitness.online), a women’s wellness coach who runs specific online workshops to help restore PF normality and strength. Practising Kegel exercises (pelvic floor exercises) is a great place to start, she says, but you should prepare yourself for regular daily practice.

Here’s how: Without tilting or tensing the glutes, imagine you’re drawing the pubic bone backwards towards the tailbone as you exhale and pull gently upwards, as if you’re trying to stop a fart dead in its tracks (think being in a lift with someone you fancy). Hold for a few seconds, then release.

As you get more confident, switch between quick-fire Kegels and slower, controlled ones. It’s worth seeking expert help if you’re not sure of what you’re doing, since the PF is a muscle like any other and can be trained to become tight and taut again. Let’s spend as much time on that muscle as we might on our triceps when the sleeveless tops are beckoning.