Impact activities such as running, jumping, and high-intensity training are often described as harmful for the pelvic floor. But is impact really the problem?

This seminar invites participants to reconsider common assumptions about pelvic floor function and stress urinary incontinence in physically active women. Rather than viewing impact as inherently harmful, the course explores a different question: does the pelvic floor have the capacity to manage the load placed upon it? When appropriately prepared, impact may not only be tolerated but may also act as a beneficial stimulus for adaptation.

Drawing on current research, the seminar examines the role of intra-abdominal pressure, pelvic floor displacement, and eccentric muscle action in response to impact forces. Participants will review the scientific evidence surrounding pelvic floor function during dynamic movement and explore whether traditional distinctions between “good” and “bad” exercises are helpful—or whether they may unintentionally create unnecessary fear or limitations for clients and athletes.

The seminar also highlights the importance of reflexive pelvic floor responses. While voluntary pelvic floor contractions are commonly emphasised in rehabilitation, they are often too slow to respond to sudden stressors such as impact, coughing, or sneezing. Instead, the pelvic floor must be able to pre-activate and respond rapidly, requiring not only strength but also speed of contraction and rate of force development.

Participants will learn how to analyse the demands of impact activities and how to progressively build pelvic floor capacity in physically active women. The course emphasises practical application, helping clinicians and coaches translate scientific concepts into meaningful strategies for clinical practice and athletic training.

Ultimately, this seminar aims to provide a clearer framework for understanding pelvic floor function in sport and exercise, enabling practitioners to support women in returning to impact activities safely and confidently.