Which muscles comprise the Abs group in pillar anatomy?

• A. Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis, Obliques
• B. Rectus Abdominis, Latissimus Dorsi, Obliques
• C. Erector Spinae, Multifidus
• D. Rectus Femoris, Obliques

Answer: (A)

Abs group refers to the abdominal wall muscles that provide trunk stability and abdominal pressure: rectus abdominis runs down the front and flexes the spine; the transverse abdominis lies deepest and wraps around the abdomen to brace and stabilize the spine; the obliques (internal and external) run along the sides and assist with rotation and side bending as well as stability. These three together form the Abs group.

Other muscles listed are not part of this group: latissimus dorsi is a large back muscle, and erector spinae along with multifidus are back-extending muscles that run along the spine; rectus femoris is one of the quadriceps in the thigh, involved in knee extension and hip flexion.