The transversus abdominis muscles form the deepest layer of the abdominal wall and connect in the front through an aponeurosis at the midline to the linea alba. This muscle plays a role in creating fascial tension between the segments of the spine and in the pelvis. It is anticipatory in nature (as are the diaphragm and pelvic floor), contracting milliseconds before the movement of your limbs or trunk. It co-contracts with the pelvic floor and last, but certainly not least, it is a forced expiratory muscle. This means it helps with blowing out during a cough or a sneeze.The transversus abdominis muscle moves inward and outward (toward and away from the spine). As it does, it pulls the linea alba with it, creating tension along the midline. This tension is essential for helping return the postpartum abdominal wall to normal and is critical for healing a diastasis.