NO.
You should not tighten your core [and pelvic floor] when you run.
I have clients who come to me for physical therapy and were told to tighten their abdominals to prevent or treat their urinary leakage or pelvic organ prolapse.
Your pelvic floor muscles need to be able to absorb shock or forces when you land on the ground. Your muscles cannot absorb load if they are in a stiff and rigid position. Imagine trying to jump onto a trampoline that is VERY STIFF, to the point it is as rigid as concrete. It will likely hurt your joints and not feel good. This is what the exactly happening if you are landing with a tightened core and pelvic floor.
So, instead of keeping your core and pelvic floor muscles tight all the time, relax them! Your muscles don't function in a rigid position. Muscles need to have full length, or range of motion to do it's job.
So, if you are struggling with leakage or pelvic organ prolapse, stop tightening your muscles 24/7.
See a pelvic floor physical therapist to UNDERSTAND the ROOT CAUSE of your SYMPTOMS.
Check out my video on 5 tips to address your leakage with running!
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