Ep. 32 Your Pelvic Floor Sucks: How Early Movement Patterns Shape Core Strength, Pelvic Health, and Better Sleep

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The Power of Early Movement Patterns for Lifelong Health

As parents, we want our children to be healthy and happy, but there’s so much conflicting information about how to support them best. In a recent discussion with Lindsay Mumma, a rehabilitative chiropractor, we dove into a less-discussed topic with lasting impact: the role of early movement patterns in child development. According to Lindsay, these foundational movements during infancy are not just crucial for motor skills but are also tied directly to core and pelvic floor health in adulthood.

Why Early Movement Matters

When we talk about movement in babies, we often think of milestones like rolling over or crawling. However, Lindsay highlights that these aren’t just adorable moments but are essential building blocks. She explains that the movement patterns established in a baby’s first year lay the foundation for core stability, which impacts everything from posture to digestive health.

The Kegel Myth

Lindsay addresses a common misconception: that Kegels are the solution to pelvic floor health. She passionately argues that Kegels alone may not be enough and might even be counterproductive if done incorrectly. Instead, she suggests exercises like bear crawls that more naturally engage core and pelvic muscles.

Supporting Healthy Development

For parents, practical steps like increasing “tummy time” or limiting baby seats are vital. These actions support babies in developing core stability naturally. Lindsay even advises to “bring a blanket” instead of a fancy seat and let your child enjoy free floor time for optimal development.

Embracing Transformation: Learning from Butterflies

One of the most memorable moments in our conversation was Lindsay’s reminder that “butterflies don’t try to be caterpillars.” This powerful metaphor speaks to the journey we undergo as parents, especially as we navigate the unique challenges of supporting our children’s growth and development.

Just as a butterfly can’t revert to its previous stage, our little ones, too, are continuously evolving, moving forward as they build the strength and independence that will carry them through life. For us as parents, it’s a reminder to embrace each stage fully, knowing that every step—from tummy time to first steps—is a one-time opportunity that helps shape who they’ll become.

Understanding your child's movement needs goes beyond floor time for babies; it's about encouraging the right kinds of movement for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and even us as parents. Lindsay highlights that purposeful, age-appropriate activities help build core strength and expend energy for better sleep quality. For toddlers and preschoolers, this can include activities that mimic natural movement patterns, like crawling, rolling, and climbing, which help with motor skills and muscle development.

And it’s not just for kids—when we, as parents, prioritize movement in our daily routines, we model healthy habits and also experience the benefits of restorative sleep. Supporting movement at every stage creates a strong foundation for physical health and better rest for the whole family.

Key Loving Lessons Learned in this episode:

🟣 Early-year movement patterns impact lifelong core and pelvic floor stability.

🟣 Kegels aren’t always the best or only answer to pelvic floor health.

🟣 Simple floor time helps babies build strength and coordination naturally.

🟣 Excessive use of baby seats or devices can hinder natural development.

🟣 Parents are encouraged to observe and allow natural, curiosity-driven movement.

Resources mentioned to help you keep learning & growing:

⭐ Learn more about Lindsay Mumma with Triangle Chiropractic & Rehabilitation Center

⭐ Your Pelvic Floor Sucks by Lindsay Mumma

⭐ Your Pelvic Floor Sucks - Free Book & Video Resources

⭐ DNS Certified Practitioners

⭐ Gluten Free Sourdough Bread Recipe

⭐ Outlive by Peter Attia