Has anyone else been exercising more than ever? It is the one thing keeping us sane during these trying times and we have to say we do feel all the better for it. A huge chunk of us have taken up yoga, jogging and even take part in dance classes, all from the comfort of our living rooms! However, 1 in 10 women are now experiencing bladder leaks for the first time or more often as a result. Despite this being a common occurrence, 74% of women said they have never seen a workout dedicated to strengthening pelvic floor muscles.*
Bladder leaks can be quite the nuisance, but fear not, Always Discreet wants to put the squeeze on bladder leaks and is making it easier than ever to exercise the pelvic floor area with the launch of Pelvic Power by Always Discreet. The free online pelvic floor workout series has been developed by a PT and Pelvic Health Sports Physio, Helen Keeble, to specifically target and strengthen the pelvic floor and connected core.
The free 20 minute work-outs are available on www.embodyment.co.uk and the best part is they're free!
Ferne McCann commented: “As someone who realised I was experiencing bladder leaks, while I was exercising, I’m really excited to help launch Pelvic Power by Always Discreet and raise awareness of the importance of pelvic floor exercises. Pelvic Power by Always Discreet is a workout dedicated to strengthening those important muscles, helping to prevent and improve leaks. It’s been developed by a personal trainer and in partnership with a Pelvic Health Sports Physiotherapist. It is quick, fun and makes it easier than ever to get squeezing!”
Helen Keeble, Pelvic Health Sports Physiotherapist and Always Discreet partner commented: “Although some forms of high intensity exercise can induce leaks, this type of activity can be equally helpful in strengthening the pelvic floor area. Recent studies show that activities such as jumping can cause pelvic floor muscles to contract involuntarily and this can actually strengthen the muscles when part of an integrated treatment plan. The combination of regular and concentrated squeezing along with movements that encourage involuntary contraction, are likely to give you the best chance of improvement."
Ellie Hopley, Personal Trainer leading the Pelvic Power by Always Discreet sessions added: “Like any other muscle in your body, the pelvic floor needs to be looked after. I see lots of clients experiencing bladder leaks, but many don’t realise that they can help prevent and improve leaks with a few exercises. This workout is one that can be done with little or no equipment. Like anything it takes practice and perseverance but the exercises are simple yet effective and when done regularly, will massively improve your strength and confidence in your pelvic floor!”
Many women have cancelled or postponed pelvic health appointments over the past five months due to the COVID-19 crisis. Seeking advice from a healthcare professional is an important first step in the improvement journey and Always Discreet wants to encourage all women experiencing leaks to seek help from their GP or nurse. Many practices are carrying out appointments via phone or video so there is remote help at hand.
*Ireach surveyed 1000 Irish women in August 2020 on behalf of Always Discreet
