Ask any client to name one thing that I talk about in every single workout sessions and I pretty much guarantee it features the word "core"!
The core is the whole mid-section of your body; front, back and sides. The muscles of the core work as stabilizers to all of your body including your spine.
One of the most common signs of a weak core is poor posture (that's right, sit up straight). If you have a sedentary job and are sat at a desk all day, or perhaps spend a lot of time travelling in a car/van/lorry, there is very little time for movement and as a result the muscles weaken. Have a look around the office the next time you're in and see how many people end up hunched over their desk, shoulders rounded...it's not just you.
All is not lost...the core muscles can be strengthened whatever your age and whatever job you do, you just have to know how to do it.
A strong core makes it easier to do most physical activities, even day-to-day things like climbing the stairs, lifting and carrying objects. Improvements can be made with simple bodyweight exercises that target the entire area...that's right, no equipment is necessary.
These are just some examples of the type of exercises that can build the core: abdominal crunches, bird-dog stretches and the plank.
Remember the core isn't just your abdominal muscles, it is the whole section and strengthening this can result in many benefits: improved mobility in the hips, thighs, glutes and back will help to prevent lower back pain and potentially reduce any aches. Posture improves significantly and surprisingly quickly if you put the effort into the exercises and do them on a regular basis.
I have clients who have worked on their core and in just a matter of weeks noticed improvements to their balance and co-ordination, strength in their body that they didn't realise they had and more often than not a new-found confidence when they stop hiding in themselves and stand (or sit when at the desk) tall and proud.
My own core has developed drastically since I started exercising and, whilst the weightloss was a big thing for me 3.5 years ago, to sustain that loss most of my workouts now focus on my core. My balance improved beyond recognition, I can hold a plank for over 2.5 minutes, I can correct my posture instantly if I notice I'm slumping (even when out walking) and I feel all the better for it.
The beauty of core workouts is that you can squeeze them in when you can, even if you don't feel like doing a hot and sweaty workout, you can take to the floor and enjoy the stretches, lengthen your muscles and build them up to support your entire body.
If you want help in building your core, or more information on other Personal Training options then please get in touch either by calling 07584 414124, email info@gymima.com or find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/Gymima .
Remember it is never too late to start, there is something in fitness for everyone...you just have to find the one you enjoy. x
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