What is all the hype about "core" training? And - more
importantly - why should you care?
Training your core will result in tremendous benefits in a
relatively short amount of time. This is because a strong
core improves your posture, decreases your chance of
injury, increases your power and functionality, and gives
you a great-looking lean midsection.
Core training is rapidly gaining popularity for one
specific reason: sitting leads to a weak core.
Think about your typical work day. If you are like most
people then your day starts with a 30-60 minute drive to
work, followed by 8 hours at your desk and then another
30-60 minute drive home. That's a lot of sitting. And it
all adds up to one thing: a weak core.
What is Core Training?
The term "core" refers to the muscles of your abdominals
and those of your lower back. If you picture your body and
then aim for the very center you would be looking directly
at your core. The muscles that make up the core play a
unique role since they provide stabilization for your
entire body.
Core training seeks to strengthen the muscles of your
abdominal and lower back using coordinated movement. A
strong focus is put on contracting your abdominal muscles
by pulling your belly button in! toward your spine
throughout the exercises to ensure that your core muscles
are engaged.
What are the risks of a weak Core?
Unfortunately many ailments stem from having weak core
muscles. You may be personally acquainted with the most
common ailment...lower back pain. Other problems include
poor posture, being injury prone, having minimal strength
and (drum roll please) a bulging waistline.
What are the benefits of a strong Core?
Alleviating persistent back pain is one of the most
welcomed benefits of a strong core. An increase in strength
and protection from injury are also nice, and who doesn't
love to lose inches from their waist as a result of
tightened muscle?
Everyday motions such as lifting, squatting, reaching,
twisting and bending will become less challenging after
strengthening your core. While you may not immediately see
the value in this, remember that it is better to be safe
than sorry - who really wants to throw out their back while
taking out the trash.
How can I strengthen my Core?
A great place to start is to practice the technique
mentioned earlier - pull your belly button in toward your
spine, not by simply sucking in your gut, but by
contracting your abdominals. Do you feel it? Good. Now make
it a habit to do this exercise while you sit. Like on the
drive to work...at work...on the drive home - you get the
idea.
It doesn't stop there - you also want to routinely exercise
the muscles of your abdominals and lower back. This can be
done by performing exercises that target these specific
areas such as crunches and bridges.
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Machelle Lee owns and operates The Invisible Gym in Santa
Cruz, CA. Her mission is to inspire people to become
physically active and enjoy the benefits of a balanced,
healthy lifestyle. For more information and questions you
can visit her website.
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