Building strong core muscles begins with getting over the ab-session.
When you think of strong core, what do you think of? Is it six-pack abs and endless crunches? If visible abs are the first thing that comes to mind when you hear core-strength, it makes sense. Visible abdominal muscles are the darling of the mainstream fitness industry, despite being far from a true indicator of core strength, and more likely just an indicator of lower body fat.
The truth is, core strength is so much more than our rectus abdominis muscle. Yes, your “abs” are only one muscle! The abdominis rectus is divided by tendinous intersections that give the appearance of a “6-pack”. So why are we letting this one muscle steal the show?
Let’s zoom out to the rest of your core. Your core is a complex group of muscles existing throughout your back, hips, pelvis and even glutes. These muscles work together as a chain to stabilize your spine and pelvis, making this muscle group critical in nearly every movement you make. Breathing, standing, walking and catching your balance all happen through the strength of your core.
Unfortunately, this chain can become weakened over time with underuse. Spending hours sitting at work or in transit will overtime weaken our core muscles. A weak core can contribute to poor spinal health, increased risk of injury and more difficulty moving in the ways we would like to.
If you’re on a movement journey, strengthening your entire core is a great goal to make. As you work toward this goal, keep in mind that you can have a powerful core without having visible abdominal muscles. Better markers of core strength include improved stability, balance, and less shakes in core-focused movements.
So let’s get strengthened! If the idea of doing endless sit ups makes you wince, don’t worry— there are plenty of other ways to strengthen your core. In fact, sit-ups target only a small portion of our core muscles.
At Flexibility with Vera, we use movements such as planks, bird dogs, and hip bridges to build core strength. We also use functional movements that build core muscle endurance while improving flexibility, like lunges and leg balances.
Are you ready to grow your strength and flexibility in a body-neutral environment? Discover the building blocks of core engagement and functional flexibility in our 6-week stretch intensive for anyone ready to feel unshakeable, bendy, and at ease in their body.
