Core Strength - What does it mean to you?

Lets start by discussing what core muscles are. 

Core muscles are the muscles forming around the trunk of your body....your abdomen, obliques (sides) and your mid and lower back muscles.  Some of your core muscles are visible....but most are deep tissue muscles layered underneath. 

All day, every day, we are using our core muscles to some degree.  Sitting in your office chair (hopefully with proper posture), standing, walking....you get the idea.  The only exception, the only time your core muscles are totally relaxed is when you are laying flat on your back. 

The more developed your core muscles are, the better prepared your body will be to prevent injury (ie; lower back pain) and perform daily functions with ease.  You see, when core muscles are weak, engaging them feels like hard work....and over time, the muscles become imbalanced and create deviations in the spine.  The result??  Often times its chronic back pain or injury. 

Exercises to strengthen your core can include side bends (for the obliques), back extensions and crunches. 

Watch for future updates from FullTilt Fitness Training for more ways to strengthen your core....and the rest of your body.