Core exercises are good for you – but do you include core exercises in your fitness routine? Here’s why you should.Core exercises are an important part of a well-rounded fitness program. Aside from occasional situps and pushups, however, core exercises are often neglected.
Core exercises improve your balance and stability
Core exercises train the muscles in your pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen to work in harmony, helping you to have more control over your movements
- Most sports and other physical activities depend on stable core muscles, which are the reason why most people play sports.
Core exercises can help you reach your fitness goals
Aerobic exercise and muscular fitness are the primary elements of most fitness programs.
Core exercises don’t require specialized equipment or a gym membership
Bridge exercise
- Lie on your back with knees bent and hips raised. Keep your back in a neutral position, not arched and not pressed into the floor. Tighten your abdominal muscles. Raise your hips off the floor until your hips are aligned with your knees and shoulders. Hold for as long as you can without breaking your form.
Strengthening core muscles
Strong core muscles make it easier to do most physical activities
- For example, it is important for athletes, such as runners, as weak core muscles can lead to more fatigue, less endurance and injuries
- Weak core muscles also leave you susceptible to poor posture, lower back pain and muscle injuries
