Health & Fitness
Your Core. Like the Center of the Earth, It's What Powers Your Body [Video]
What's the difference between core training and abdominal training?
I’m not sure exactly when I first started hearing the buzz about ‘working your core,’ but I think it was around 2005. There seemed to be a shift away from traditional abdominal exercises, such as the ‘crunch,’ and towards core training. The explosion of yoga and pilates really helped fuel the craze. So what’s the big deal anyway? What’s the real difference between your abdomen and your core?
Quite simply, your abdominal muscles make up a small portion of your core. Your ‘abs’ comprise of a group of six muscles that extend from various places on the ribs to various places on the pelvis. What experts refer 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 girdle and create a solid base of support. To visualize your core, imagine a 360-degree view, wrapping completely around your torso and hips whereas your abdominal muscles lie on a flat plane, in the front section of your torso.
Having a strong center is the basis for having a strong body; it can help prevent low back pain and can do wonders for your posture. Plus, a solid midsection aids in other exercises like running, walking and swimming, and will help the average person in life’s everyday tasks, such as bending, reaching and twisting.
Find out what's happening in New Canaanwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Core training is appropriate and important for everyone—from kids to the elderly. In fact, I include it in all of my fitness sessions. And, luckily, one fundamental exercise, the plank, can be pretty easy to master. The key is to get your body in the correct position, don't move, and breathe! You can measure your progress by how long you’re able to maintain your form and hold the pose. Challenge yourself by increasing in small increments the length of time you can stay in position. Watch the short video for a demonstration of the plank and then give it a try!
So what’s your favorite core exercise? Let me know!
