Anatom3DRectus abdominis
Musculus rectus abdominis · Přímý sval břišní
Muscles
Looks like
Two long straps of muscle running from the lower ribs to the pubic bone either side of the midline, crossed by tendon bands into the 'six-pack'.
What it does
Bends the trunk forward, braces the belly and helps push in coughing, lifting and giving birth.
Keeping it well
Core work and staying active keep it strong; the two halves often drift apart in pregnancy (diastasis recti), which usually narrows with time and targeted exercise.