The Core

Most people think of the core as a nice six-pack, or toned abs, but the abdominal muscles are a very small part of the core. To build a strong core you need to exercise a variety of muscles from your hips to your shoulders.

The abs have very limited and specific action, and what is referred to as the core actually consists of many different muscles that stabilize the spine and pelvis, and run the entire length of the torso. When these muscles contract, they stabilize the spine, pelvis and shoulder and create a solid base of support.

The difference between core and abdominal training is that you’re not just targeting the front side of the body but the back and glutes as well. A movement that works your core is going to work more than one muscle group, and you’re going to see results a lot faster.

The core muscles also make it possible to stand upright and move on two feet. These muscles help control movements, transfer energy, shift body weight and move in any direction. A strong core distributes the stresses of weight-bearing and protects the back. Core conditioning exercise programs need to target all these muscle groups to be effective.

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