13/08/2026
brace /breɪs/ v. (biomechanics)
To generate circumferential tension in the trunk musculature — transversus abdominis, obliques, re**us abdominis, diaphragm, and pelvic floor acting in concert — producing intra-abdominal pressure that stiffens the spine against external load. The pressurised abdominal cavity functions as a rigid cylinder, resisting flexion, extension, and rotation, and providing a stable base from which limb force can be expressed.
Distinguished from hollowing, which draws the abdominal wall inward and produces markedly lower spinal stiffness.
“Brace before descending, not after.”
braced adj. — bracing n.
