06/05/2026
Raising Awareness in Gymnasts - Early Matters
A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to present a seminar on the pelvic floor, core, and breathing mechanics for the athletes at .
When we think about pelvic floor dysfunction, many people assume it's only a concern during pregnancy or after childbirth. The reality is that pelvic floor symptoms can affect young athletes too—especially those participating in high-impact sports like gymnastics, ballet, dance, cheerleading, and trampoline.
Research has found that urinary leakage and other pelvic floor symptoms occur in adolescent female athletes at surprisingly high rates, with studies reporting prevalence ranging from 18% to 80% and an average of nearly 49% among adolescent female athletes. High-impact activities place significant demands on the pelvic floor, core, and breathing system.
Studies have also shown that many young athletes have never been taught about pelvic floor function and may not feel comfortable discussing symptoms when they occur.
That's why education is so important.
💙 Understanding how the diaphragm, core, and pelvic floor work together
💙 Learning healthy breathing strategies
💙 Recognizing that leaking is common, but not something athletes should simply accept
💙 Creating an environment where young athletes feel comfortable asking questions
Whether it's a gymnast sticking a landing, a ballerina performing jumps, or a dancer spending hours in rehearsal, these athletes deserve the knowledge and tools to support their bodies for both performance and lifelong health.
A huge thank you to Coach Bri from Legacy Gymnastics for helping bring awareness to a topic that deserves more attention. The earlier we start these conversations, the better equipped our young athletes will be for the future. 🌟
