Core/Functional Training
If you were to ask us which muscle group in your entire body you could work to get the greatest benefits in the shortest amount of time, we would tell you, without hesitation “the core”. Strengthening of the core can produce tremendous benefits to anyone regardless of their training experience.
But what is the core???
The core, as its known in training circles consists of all the muscles in the abdominal and lower back areas. this includes all the abdominal muscles (rectus abdominus, internal and external obliques, transverse abdominus and intercostals) as well as the muscles associated with the spine (erector spinae group) and gluteal musculature.
These muscles work in harmony to provide stabilisation for your body and to transfer strength and power between upper and lower body muscles.
So why is strengthening the core so important?
Weak core muscles contribute to all kinds of problems in the body, the most prevalent of which is lower back pain. By strengthening the muscles that help support the spine and improve posture, you can dramatically decrease symptoms of lower back pain.
Benefits of functional core training:
- Helps to prevent injuries. A strong stable core helps to prevent injuries as with stronger muscles supporting the spine, pelvis and shoulder joints it can better handle the forces of rotation and compression that often lead to injuries.
- Reduces the risk for lower back pain and injury. Core exercises are designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles, tendons and ligaments that support and protect the spine.
- Most low back pain is caused by bad posture, excessive body weight, physical inactivity and faulty body mechanics. The gravitational forces from sitting, walking, and running will impact the low back area and if not supported properly the spine will suffer.
- Improves posture making the stomach look flatter. The protruding “pooch” people seem to obtain around middle age is usually caused by weak abdominal muscles, specifically the transverse abdominus (TVA) muscle that is located deep within the lower abdomen. Weakness in these muscles also contributes to “slouched posture” or the “hunchbacked look”
- Increases the ability to perform daily functions such as pulling and pushing movements, lifting and other simple daily activities
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