Which muscles must be engaged to achieve abdominal strength?

To achieve abdominal strength, it is essential to engage both the internal oblique and external oblique muscles. The internal oblique muscles are located on the sides of the abdomen and play a critical role in the rotation and bending motions of the torso, contributing to overall trunk stability. The external obliques, situated on the outer sides of the abdomen, work in concert with the internal obliques to flex, rotate, and laterally bend the trunk.

Together, these muscles contribute significantly to core strength, which is fundamental for supporting the spine and pelvis in various movements and activities. By focusing on the engagement of these muscles, individuals can improve their functional strength and stability, essential for both athletic performance and everyday activities.

While the other options include muscles that serve important roles in the body, they do not specifically target abdominal strength in the same way that the internal and external obliques do.