OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the impact of combined core and pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training on lumbar function in sedentary women with lower back pain (LBP). METHODS: This randomized controlled study included 60 female patients divided into three groups: a control group (n = 20), a core training group (n = 20), and a combined PFM and core training group (n = 20). The participants underwent three weekly interventions over four weeks. Trunk muscle endurance, deep lumbar stabilizing muscle activity, and LBP severity were assessed before and after the intervention. RESULTS: Following the 4-week INTERVENTION: (1) In the combined PFM and core training group, significant improvements in muscle endurance (p < 0.01) were observed, particularly in the flexor, extensor, and right abdominal muscles compared to the control group (p < 0.05). (2) In the core training group, significant increases in muscle endurance were seen in various directions (p < 0.05), with highly significant improvements in flexion and right flexion directions (p < 0.01). The flexor muscles exhibited greater endurance than the control group (p < 0.05). (3) In the control group, dorsal muscle endurance significantly decreased after four weeks (p < 0.01). (4) Pain scores after 2 h of sitting significantly decreased (p < 0.01), along with reduced LBP differences (p < 0.05). There was a decrease in pain scores (p < 0.05) and a significant reduction in LBP after 2 h of sitting (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Core training, either independently or combined with PFM training, can enhance trunk muscle endurance and alleviate LBP in sedentary women with LBP. Core training alone appeared to have a more pronounced effect.

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