The dynamic duo: how the diaphragm and pelvic floor work together

The respiratory diaphragm and the pelvic floor muscles may be located at opposite ends of the torso, but they function as an interconnected team when it comes to our body’s stability and our breath.

 The diaphragm is the primary muscle responsible for breathing. It sits beneath the lungs and contracts downward to allow our lungs to expand and fill with air as we breathe in. As the diaphragm descends, intra-abdominal pressure increases. The pelvic floor muscles respond to these pressure changes by gently lengthening and supporting the abdominal organs from below. On exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes upward, and the pelvic floor subtly lifts, helping restore internal pressure balance.

 This synchronised movement supports posture, spinal stability, continence, and efficiency of movement. Key nerve receptors in the diaphragm are responsible for sending information about our position and posture to the central nervous system. If one part of this system is dysfunctional—like poor diaphragm mechanics or pelvic floor weakness—it can disrupt core mechanics, leading to issues like lower back pain, pelvic pain or dysfunction, or breathing difficulties.

Nurturing this symbiotic relationship through breathwork, postural awareness and beneficial movement patterns can have a profound impact on our day to day function and performance.