5 of 6

Write now Article Tools

What is The Core? Your body's core consists of the lumbo-pelvic-hip complex, thoracic spine and cervical spine. THE CORE is your body's center of gravity. A person may have sufficient EXTREMITY STRENGTH (limbs), but few people display sufficient CORE STRENGTH. A stronger and more stable CORE, will maximize your EXTREMITY STRENGTH and POWER.

About 29 muscles support your core. The major muscles include:

transversus abdominis - the deepest of the abdominal muscles, it lies under the obliques and wraps around your spine for protection and stability.

external obliques - these muscles are on the side and front of the abdomen and wrap around your waist.

internal obliques - these muscles lie under the external obliques and run in the opposite direction.

rectus abdominis - this is the "six pack" part of the abs that runs down the front of the abdomen.

erector spinae - this collection of muscles runs along your neck to your lower back.

Since the core is your body's center of gravity and all movement begins with the core, it is essential to strengthen and stabilize it. A strong core will allow you to handle heavier loads as your training progresses.

The core muscles are also very important in preventing injuries such as low back pain. Stability ball exercises, bridges, planks, low back extensions, medicine ball exercises, etc. are great for strengthening core muscles.

Learn more about this author, Mark Dilworth - Certified Personal Trainer.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The Body Core: Stengthening?
We want to hear your view. Write now!