Your core — the area around your trunk
and pelvis — is where all movement in
your body originates. It’s also where your
center of gravity is located. A strong core
provides a more stable platform for
movement and helps you with other
physical activities.
When you have good core stability, the
muscles in your pelvis, lower back, hips
and abdomen work in harmony and provide
support to your spine. A weak core can
make you susceptible to poor posture,
lower back pain and muscle injuries.
Core strengthening requires the regular
and proper exercise of your body’s core
muscles. Abdominal crunches are a form
of core exercise. You can have fun doing
some core exercises using a fitness ball.
Balancing on these oversized, inflated
balls requires that you focus on using your
core muscles for support.
Do core exercises at least three times a
week. Breathe steadily and slowly, and
take a break when you need one. For
optimal results, get help from a trained
professional when you begin — body
position and alignment are crucial when
performing core-strengthening exercises.
