Well for obvious reasons, right? To look good in a bathing suit or to get that 6 pack we have all been dreaming about…
Yes, that is a HUGE motivator for many of us, however improving core strength has a number of other benefits for your overall health and wellbeing.
Lets talk about our CORE muscles.
Most of us when asked where our core is would point to our abdominals and while this is partially correct, many experts include the pelvic muscles, mid and lower back, and even hip muscles. Think about your core as anything that helps support and protect your spine.
For the purpose of this blog, we are going to primarily talk about the abdominal region.
Our abdominal muscles include:
- Internal Abdominal Obliques
- External Abdominal Obliques
- Rectus Abdominis
- Transverse Abdominis
It’s always amazing to me how many layers of muscles surround our abdomen!
Our abdominal region is also important because it holds our organs. Abdominal weight gain is concerning because typically, as abdominal weight increases visceral fat increases. Visceral fat is the dangerous fat around our organs that increase our risk of several diseases including diabetes, heart disease, PCOS, and metabolic syndrome.
Having a strong core is important for everyone of all ages.
Here are a few of the benefits of a strong core:
- Improve posture
- Reduce back injuries and pain
- Improve balance and prevent falls
- Improve every day activities (even bending over to pick something up or vacuuming)
- Look long and leaner
Here are some tips to improve your core health today
- Balance while brushing your teeth (stand for 1 minute on each foot)
- Focus on proper posture throughout the day; even while driving, sitting, and working
- Get a standing desk or switch your desk chair out for an active sitting chair that requires you to engage your core
- Focus on engaging your core during every exercise including walking, running, weight training
- Try a weekly pilates class
- Complete the following 10 minute core workout at least 3 times per week
