Building and maintaining a strong core is crucial to overall fitness. Our core is what provides our body with stability, improves our posture, supports a healthy spine and enables us to perform a wide variety of daily activities with ease. We often associate a healthy core with images of chiseled, six-pack abs. But, a healthy core is so much more than this. Our core is our "powerhouse". The forces transferred through our core from our legs and upper body are what provide the oomph in our tennis serve or allow us to hit a baseball into the outfield. Bending, sitting, climbing stairs and shoveling snow all rely on stable core muscles to keep us injury free.
What exactly is our “core”? The core consists of all of the muscles in the abdomen, lower back and pelvis; including the obliques, spine, glutes and diaphragm. These muscles work together to support our spine and provide balance to the rest of our body. Having a strong core ensures that the rest of our body can move properly and prevents other muscles from overcompensating. This is important for everyone - from someone completing everyday tasks to elite athletes.
Benefits of Core Strength
Prevents Injuries
Alleviates Lower Back Pain
Improves Posture
Enhances Overall Performance/Form
Makes Everyday Life Easier
Enhances Flexibility
Improves Balance & Stability
I used to think of core exercises as the dreaded sit up or crunch. Thankfully we do not have to rely solely on them to strengthen our core muscles! In fact, incorporating various movements of the core muscles is the best approach to building a solid foundation. Yoga, pilates and even swimming will help build core muscles. Squats, deadlifts, pushups and planks are simple movements you can also do to enhance the core muscles. It’s a good idea to focus on incorporating core exercises into your routine at least a few times a week. Of course, consulting with your physician is always a good idea before you try anything new.
Below are links to a few of my favorite videos that may help you get started or provide some variety to your current routine.
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