It's in the Core: How and Why to Keep It Strong
By Genevieve Cunningham
The core gets a lot of attention. When we think about the core of a person, we probably picture rock hard abs and a beach ready physique. Of course, when it comes to our own abs, the picture is a little less enthusiastic. For most people, the core needs a little work. Maybe it's covered in a layer of excess fat or it's not as strong or toned as we'd prefer. Unless you're a fitness enthusiast, you probably overlook your own abs in favor of nachos and soda. But should we? Or should the core be a priority? If you're interested in being in the best health, take a look at why the core is important plus some tips for keeping it strong.
Your Core is Your Center
One reason why the core is so important is because it's quite literally the center of your body. It helps you stand up. It helps you move. It holds your body! We use it all day every day. If the core is weak, it places undue pressure and demands on other parts -- especially the lower back, legs, and neck. By keeping the core strong, we're keeping the center of the body -- and therefore the rest of the body -- strong as well.
Tips for Strength
A healthy weight - An unhealthy weight is really hard on the core. Make sure that you're keeping excess fat to a minimum. This can be done through a regular exercise routine and a good diet. The less weight that we carry around, the easier it is for the core to do its job in keeping us strong.
Exercise - Besides helping us to maintain a good weight, regular exercise also helps us build strength. This includes regular cardio, weight lifting, calisthenics, and exercises that target the muscles in the core. Build strength at the deepest level, and your core won't let you down.
Posture - Poor posture is terrible for the core! Unfortunately, most people have less than stellar posture. We slouch and keep the neck bent. We don't hold ourselves upright or keep the core tight. If you want a stronger core, focus on good posture. Keep the shoulders back and down. Pull the core in and keep it tight. Avoid hours and hours of technology use. The better your posture becomes, the stronger the core will get, and the more benefit you'll gain.
The core is probably even more important than you realize. We need a strong core to keep a strong and healthy body. We need it for appearance and balance and efficiency. Luckily, you're definitely capable of building and keeping a strong center. Use these tips to get started, and you'll have a core to be proud of in no time at all.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Chesterfield, Mo.