Think of your core muscles as the sturdy central link in a chain connecting your upper and lower body. Properly building up your core cranks up the power. A strong core also enhances balance and stability. Thus, it can help prevent falls and injuries during sports or other activities. In fact, a strong, flexible core underpins almost everything you do: The core is actually made up of three sheaths of muscles: The upper abs, the side muscles, which are called the oblique, and then this very deep layer of muscle. Those deep muscles are the ones that do all the good stuff, like supporting your spine and acting as natural corsets when you work them not only do you get a flatter stomach but a tighter stomach. In a study titled Effects of core strength training on core stability it was proved that after completing a 4-week core strength training program, most of the core stability measures improved.
The benefits of core strength training
- Greater efficiency of movement
- Improved body control and balance
- Increased power output from both the core musculature and peripheral muscles such as the shoulders, arms, and legs
- Reduced risk of injury (the core muscles act as shock absorbers for jumps and rebounds etc.)
- Improved balance and stability
What’s the difference between core training and working your abs?
The difference between core and abdominal training is that you’re not just targeting the front side of the body but the backside as well. A core workout will also include the erector spine, which are the muscles that make up your back, and also your glutes. A movement that works your core is going to work with more than one muscle group, and you are going to see results a lot faster.
Core exercises improve your balance and stability
Core exercises train the muscles in your pelvis; lower back, hips, and abdomen to work in harmony. This leads to better balance and stability, whether on the playing field or in daily activities. In fact, most sports and other physical activities depend on stable core muscles.
Strong core muscles make it easier to do most physical activities
Strong core muscles make it easier to do everything from swinging a golf club to getting a glass from the top shelf or bending down to tie your shoes. Weak core muscles leave you susceptible to poor posture, lower back pain, and muscle injuries.
Core exercises can help you reach your fitness goals
The basic components of most fitness regimens are aerobic activity and muscular fitness. However, to have a truly well-rounded fitness routine, you should also include core workouts. A well-rounded exercise program is the best approach to attain your fitness goals, whether you’re a newbie taking your first steps toward health or a dedicated fitness fanatic looking to improve your results.
References
- Effects of core strength training on core stability
- Shih-Lin Hsu,PTS,1 Harumi Oda, PTS,1 Saya Shirahata,PTS,1 Mana Watanabe,PTS,1 and Makoto Sasaki,PT, PhD2,*
- KimE, Lee H: The effects of deep abdominal muscle strengthening exercises on respiratory function and lumbar stability. J Phys Ther Sci,2013, 25: 663665. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/
- https://www.health.harvard.edu
