CORE CONCEPTS

While some may reference a desire for “six-pack abs,” real core strength can help prevent injury and improve overall performance.

There is a big difference between having a “six-pack” and having real core strength and stability. While ripped abs may look good on the beach, how much will they truly impact your day-to-day life? For the average person, probably not much. However, improving core strength and stability can prevent injuries and increase your overall athletic performance and ability to do daily activities! 

THE CORE IS COMPRISED OF MORE THAN ABS

The core is comprised of four major muscle groups: the abs, obliques, low back and glutes. While we all know the abs are in the front of the body, these muscles alone do not lead to overall core strength and stability.

Just like a car, multiple parts must work in tandem to make it function efficiently. It’s important to have an engine, but without the body of the car or the wheels, it won’t be able to travel very far. The same is true for utilizing your core muscles. If you do not have strength and stability in all four muscle groups, there is an increased chance for injury, not only in your core, but also in other areas of the body.

STABILITY VS. STRENGTH

For many muscle groups, strength is the key to being able to perform most tasks. However, the core requires a balance of stability and strength. In order to assist other parts of the body, such as the arms or legs, stability is needed to shift forces from the legs to the arms and vice versa. When performing activities that involve pushing, bending and lifting, strength is vital to ensure that you won’t just lean forward or even collapse.

It is important to note, core strength and stability aren’t just imperative for those who are young or consider themselves physically fit. Even everyday activities like using a push lawn mower, gardening or picking up your grandkids can lead to injury if the core muscles are not activated.

PAIN OR INJURY SLOWING YOU DOWN?

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