In order to activate TVA muscle fibers or any other muscle for that matter, a weak muscle must first be "jump started" using MAT Therapy or by using isometric exercises before you can strengthen it through exercise. If a weak muscle is not first jump started, then body is forced to compensate and use other muscles to perform desired movement.

Isometric exercises solve several problems that Rehab programs and weight lifting activities do not solve:

Problem #1: A weak muscle will not contract with most strengthening exercises because dominant muscles will compensate for weak muscles.

Problem #2: When body senses instability in joint, it will tighten up to protect joint. Stretching a tight muscle will only create a temporary release and could result in a more vulnerable joint.

Problem #3: Muscle imbalances may occur through repetitive use of same muscle, or through injury, causing body to go into "protective" mode.

When performing isometric exercise contractions, contraction should be held for 6 seconds and repeated 6 times. This allows time for peek tension to develop and metabolic changes to occur in muscle. The muscle should be placed in its shorthend position. In this position muscle is at its weakest. The intensity of each isometric contraction should increase. By 6th contraction, greater range of motion and neural input should occur. For more information on isometric exercises visit www.sports-injury-solutions.com

Exercises for TVA

· This exercise is critical in re-estabilishing good communication between brain and key stabilizer muscles (TVA). Progressing to advanced abdominal exercises when your body is not prepared will only magnify muscular imbalances that can cause injury and pain.

· Lie on your back and cross your left leg over right leg. Your left heel should be next to right knee. Rotate right approx 30 degrees your left hip will come off ground several inches. Push knee into ball or wall 6 times for 6 seconds. Start lightly and increase pressure each time. If you feel cramping in inner thigh you are pressing too hard. This exercise will activate TVA and should be followed up by regular abdominal exercises.

Lastly, you must give your all (but not your life). In order to truly “make it” in life, you must put NCAA Division 1 in its proper place. Remember that you are in control and that it is not appropriate for sport to control you. Keep in mind, productive relationships, education, and having a positive impact on your community are top priorities. Do not let being an athlete define you, rather focus on being yourself, learn from your mistakes, and execute as best you can. Timing and teams-needs will play a major role in where you end up, so control what’s in your court and don’t stress over rest.