Author(s): LABUN, J., PIERNICKA, M., SZUMILEWICZ, A., Institution: GDANSK UNIVERISTY OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORT, POLAND, Country: POLAND, Abstract-ID: 2201

INTRODUCTION:
Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is a well-established intervention in the prevention and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction, particularly in women. However, the male pelvic floor remains insufficiently investigated, and objective data on training-induced neuromuscular adaptations in men are limited. Proper pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function is essential for urinary continence, sexual function and lumbopelvic stability, highlighting its potential preventive relevance for the male population. This study aimed to evaluate changes in the neuromuscular activity of the PFM in men before and after a 6-week training program supported by biofeedback (BF) session.
METHODS:
Sixteen healthy, physically active men (23 ± 4 years; BMI 28 ± 4 kg/m²) participated in the study. None reported symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, as confirmed by the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7), the modified Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire (APFQ), and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). PFM activity was assessed using sEMG (TeleMyo™ 2400 DTS) with an anal probe (PR-06). The assessment protocol included 11 voluntary PFM contractions performed according to the Glazer’s protocol, consisting of 3-, 10-, and 60-second holds to evaluate the function of fast- and slow-twitch muscle fibers. After baseline assessment and one EMG BF session to ensure correct technique of PFM activation, participants completed a 6-week PFMT program integrated into their regular strength-training routines. EMG amplitudes were analyzed using both non-normalized and baseline-normalized values with paired Wilcoxon test and effect sizes (ES) calculated based on Z-statistics (r).
RESULTS:
Significant improvements were observed in all contraction types. The mean amplitude of five 3-second contractions increased from 7.94 μV to 12.72 μV (p = 0.006; ES: r = 0.6), and five 10-second contractions from 7.8 μV to 13.32 μV (p = 0.001; ES: r = 0.8). The 60-second endurance contraction improved from 6.39 μV to 10 μV (p = 0.001; ES: r = 0.8). MVC values increased significantly (p = 0.002). Baseline-normalized analysis confirmed relative increases of 112% for rapid contractions (p = 0.03; ES: r = 0.5), 155% for 10-second contractions (p = 0.03; ES: r = 0.5), and 133% for the 60-second hold (p = 0.07; ES: r = 0.4), the latter not reaching statistical significance. No adverse effects were reported.
CONCLUSION:
The PFMT intervention supported by one BF session led to improvements in neuromuscular activity of the PFM in healthy, strength-trained young men. The results suggest that targeted pelvic floor exercises may enhance pelvic floor function, particularly in men exposed to high intra-abdominal pressures during strength training. These findings underscore the potential value of integrating preventive PFMT into strength-training programs to support pelvic health. Future research involving larger cohorts is warranted to establish normative reference values and to refine evidence-based training protocols for men.