Did you ever wish that there were exercises you could do while riding in the car?  For women, Kegel exercises might be the answer.  "Kegels"  are isometric exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic floor-those muscles way down there that somehow never quite feel the same after a baby or two.  Weak pelvic muscles can lead to serious complications from incontinence or wetting yourself to one or more of your organs "prolapsing" or hanging out where they shouldn't. 

Like most exercises, Kegels only work when they're done regularly and properly.  They also work far better for prevention, than after you already have a problem.  The most important thing to do is to identify the right muscles.  Imagine that you're in midstream and trying to stop your flow of urine-that pulling/contracting  feeling is what you're looking to duplicate in these exercises.  Simply pull those muscles in and hold for a slow count to three and repeat 10 to 15 times each time you do the exercises.  Hey, what else do you have to do at a red light if you've already put on your make-up?!!

Aim to do your Kegels at least three times per day.  You can do them in any position or while doing any other activity.  Unlike other exercises, you won't need to sweat and you won't feel the burn.  But if done properly, you may notice improved bladder control in 3 to 6 weeks.  And maybe those red lights won't seem quite as long.

Created: 6/13/2001  -  Donnica Moore, M.D.