Table 4 Participant written comments about physical change

Change to the hernia

 29

Overnight ……..my hernia reduced considerably. Since then normal movement does bring it back out, but only half the size it was before. The reduced size is much more comfortable. Occurred overnight, but has persisted so far (3 days). M

 02

I am feeling really good and notice they are making a positive difference to my bulge the day after I do them. Also, now when sneezing I can feel a subconscious movement to “tighten the belt” which supports the area. M

Strength, posture, and tone

 14

Can feel a difference in my abdominal muscles, particularly around the hernia. Feels stronger, and my posture is much better M

 14

I feel the best I have for 10 years. My abdominal muscles feel stronger, my posture is much better, and my hernia feels tighter. I am enjoying it immensely, this will become a way of life. M

 14

The area around my hernia already feels more toned, probably because I haven’t used those muscles for 44 years! M

 5

I have never had any issues with my hernia whilst doing these exercises… I now have developed muscle control of my tummy, and now have a much more toned body because of the exercises…I will be continuing these exercises to help improve my core, and general wellbeing. F

 02

I am feeling stronger and more conditioned. M

Abdominal control

 11

Feeling the benefit of all the exercises that I am doing, feeling more in control of the muscles in my abdomen, no issues with my hernia at all. F

 11

I felt that I have really benefited from doing all the exercises, feeling that I now have a hold of my pelvic floor and improved greatly my core muscles. F

 02

Got a much better core connection without my ribs lifting due to the slight modifications. M