About Core Training

The “core” is considered the muscles that make up the mid trunk. The “core” includes the muscles of the low back as well as muscles attached to the hips since they are also responsible for movement and contribute to posture to a degree.

 

Core Benefits

-  A strong core will enhance balance and stability. Imagine trying to maintain your balance if the middle of your body, the part that helps your legs hold you up against gravity, were weak and feeble. That’s why athletes that require agility in their sport have strong midsections and lower backs.

 

-  A strong core will improve your posture. Add some strength to the low back and abdominal region and you will stand up better, and stay that way longer without fatigue.

 

-  A strong core will improve functional movement, which is important to athletes, as well as anyone that needs to walk, bend, turn and lift things during their day.  

 

-  A strong core can prevent back pain. In most cases weak abdominal muscles cause low back pain. A strong core supports the body more effectively, that allows you to do the things you need to do with less fatigue. 

 

-  A strong core can also help you lift heavier loads. Whether you are lifting weights, shoveling the driveway or packing heavy boxes, if you have a weak core you are an accident waiting to happen. 

 

Developing Strength in the Core

Effective core training takes an integrated approach. It is not merely about working the muscles in isolation but moving the body as a unit. This involves moving in different planes (front and back, side to side, and rotating). Core training involves changing “levels”, like reaching down to the ground to pick something up. It also includes lifting things off the floor and balancing on an unstable surface from time to time.

Exercises include, but are not limited to, deadlifts, lunges, bridges, planks etc.