Core Strength Training - Exercises To Build A Powerful Core

It seems like lately you can't open a magazine without seeing an article about core strength and training. But while you have probably heard about core strength, are you like many people who are confused about what that really means, and why it matters?

I would say that most people think about strong abs when we talk about the core. But really, the core consists of abdominal, back and hip muscles. I like to say everything from the shoulder to the hip.

So why is core strength so important? Here are just a few reasons:

• Power - A strong core enables you to perform weight-bearing movements and reduce your risk of injury. It will also help alleviate unnecessary joint stress. It builds back strength and helps to prevent low back pain.
  
  
• Posture - Strengthening the core muscles will naturally improve your posture, which will also help to alleviate back pain.
  
  
• Agility - a strong core leads to faster reaction time, better body awareness, improved coordination and flexibility. This will help you in your daily life by reducing the risk of injury and in performing everyday tasks.
  
  
• Stability - a strong core means better balance, which can prevent falls and other accidents.

What is the best way to increase core strength? Group classes such as Kickboxing, indoor cycling, and Pilates are great core strengthening activities. Also, exercises that require constant abdominal stabilization should be performed on a regular basis. Try doing your crunches on a stability ball rather than the floor. Even sitting on a stability ball and lifting one leg at a time will target the core. Balancing on a Bosu and performing squats and lunges is another way to engage these muscles and enhance the exercise. If you are already working your core, but want some ideas on how to change things up, check out the Abdominal Exercises on ShapeFit and you are sure to find something new and challenging!

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