When most people think about core training, they picture the rectus abdominis—the classic “six-pack” muscle. But for vocal athletes, relying too much on this superficial muscle doesn’t necessarily serve our needs.
The rectus abdominis is designed to be reactive rather than the primary driver of stabilization. True core strength for vocal performance begins with the deeper layers of the intrinsic stabilization system—muscles that work together to coordinate pressure, transfer force, and create a balanced, supportive foundation for your voice.
This intrinsic system includes the transverse abdominis, the inner portion of the internal obliques, the pelvic floor, diaphragm, and deep back muscles. Rather than isolating these structures, we train them to work in harmony—because coordination is what sets the stage for meaningful, functional strength.
For vocal athletes, this matters because the ability of your core to coordinate and manage pressure directly influences subglottal pressure and breath control—two essential elements for healthy, powerful vocal performance. When the core can’t effectively manage pressure, you might feel tension around the ribcage or throat, limiting your vocal flexibility and resonance.
Over-focusing on rectus-dominant exercises can actually create more problems for singers:
- Excessive rectus work can compress the ribcage, making it harder for your breath to move freely.
- It can create a sense of “gripping” in the upper abdominals, disrupting the natural flow of breath and sound.
- It can also reduce the adaptability of your movement—something we rely on constantly when performing.
Rotational mechanics also play a key role in core function. The internal obliques rotate the torso to the same side (right internal = right rotation) and are associated with hip flexion. The external obliques rotate the torso to the opposite side (right external = left rotation) and are associated with hip extension. These relationships matter because rotation isn’t just about twisting your torso—it’s about how your entire system manages load, transfers energy, and supports dynamic breath.
And it doesn’t stop at the abdominals. The fascia of the obturator internus and adductors also contributes to rotational and positional balance at the pelvis, directly influencing pelvic floor function. Restrictions or asymmetries in these deeper fascial layers can pull the pelvis into torsion or misalignment, impacting breath coordination, vocal support, and the efficiency of the laryngeal system. When we consider the entire system—including how the lower body and pelvic diaphragm integrate with the core—we build a foundation that’s not only strong but also responsive, grounded, and vocally free.
In our August pop-up classes, I’ll be sharing some of my go-to drills for building rotational integration and pressure coordination—practices that support a more adaptable, expressive voice. You can find the full class schedule under “Academy” on the website.
Warmly,
Christine
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