Reverse Kegels are a technique to relax the muscles, instead of contracting them, which can help with the stiffness and pain and may increase flexibility. By strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, the organs are able to function normally, which allows for urine storage, stool elimination, and normal sexual function, she explains. “Being able to access the full excursion of our pelvic floor can provide us more strength and power,” Kostyukovsky explains. “For women, true pelvic floor relaxation and lengthening are important for childbirth. For women and men, a reverse Kegel can better allow us to empty our bowels.” These exercises can be helpful for people with constipation, hemorrhoids, or pelvic pain from tightness or an inability to fully lengthen.
