Hypopressive Gymnastics: what it is, benefits and how to do it
Much more than a "flat belly", the technique helps with diastasis, strengthening abdominal tone and posture.
Hypopressive gymnastics has been gaining prominence in the fitness world in recent times — you must have seen some influencer teaching you how to do it. It is associated with a "negative belly" but, in fact, the practice, when done correctly, is much more than that, being a great option when it comes to abdominal strengthening.
It was inspired by the Uddiyana Bandha practice, in the 80s, with the aim of helping in the period after pregnancy, replacing traditional abdominal exercises.
BENEFITS OF HYPOPRESSIVE GYM
What is diastasis?
The condition occurs during pregnancy and is when the muscles of the woman's belly separate naturally, creating space for the baby to be generated, explains Gizele Monteiro, a master in physiology and author of the book "Vencendo a Diastasis".
After pregnancy, the muscles should naturally return to their place. However, most women go through pathological diastasis - a greater separation than expected, or a tear in the tissue that connects the abdominal muscles, leaving the belly with the muscles extended long after delivery
HYPOPRESSIVE GYMNASTICS X WEIGHT LOSS
Often the technique is linked to weight loss, because of the aesthetic results it provides. Márcio Velasques, weight loss specialist, explains that gymnastics in itself does not work miracles when it comes to losing a few pounds. "This exercise alone does not promote fat loss, but it is of paramount importance in the weight loss process, precisely because it stimulates intestinal functioning and its postural action, strengthening the lumbar muscles".
Paulo Junior, a physical education teacher, says that the technique (known as vacuum in the world of athletes) is also widely used by bodybuilders to highlight the abdominal muscles during performances. "It promotes a change in tone due to exercises, generating fatigue in these muscles that are very difficult to work and after recovery (from fatigue) causes them to develop, leaving the appearance of a flat stomach more evident".
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