The "drawing-in" maneuver is a common cue used during exercise and rehabilitation programs. A light contraction of the
transverse abominis (and potentially the entire
intrinsic stabilization subsystem) achieved by gently pulling the lower abdominal region away from one's waist band. This should have minimal effect on breathing, and should not be confused with a maximal contraction of the
transverse abdominis resulting in a "vacuum pose".
- Research often refers to this maneuver as the "abdominal drawing-in maneuver"; abbreviated ADIM.
Development and introduction of this cue into practice is based on the pivotal research and resulting text:
- Carolyn Richardson, Paul Hodges, Julie Hides. Therapeutic Exercise for Lumbo Pelvic Stabilization – A Motor Control Approach for the Treatment and Prevention of Low Back Pain: 2nd Edition (c) Elsevier Limited, 2004
