Core stability

The buzz word in exercise is core stability. It simply refers to the body’s ability to maintain a safe position of the spine and pelvis, both at rest and with movement.

The ability to maintain a stable core affects our physical capabilities. We are limited by a weak or ‘poor’ core.

The better the core, the more freely (read safely and completely) we can move without causing injury. It provides us with a stable ‘foundation’ upon which to superimpose movement of the head and limbs.

Think ballet dancer – think long thin strong muscles (not the tight popping muscles of the rugby player!!).

The core: The base – the pelvic floor (female and male) The front and sides – the corset-like abdominal muscle, Transversus Abdominis The back – the spine and small spinal muscles The top – the major breathing muscle, the diaphragm

A schematic of Transversus Abdominis showing action

Certain forms of exercise actively focus on using this core. They are Pilates, Yoga, T’ai Chi, and Callenetics, and other less common pursuits!

The concept of a stable core should be carried through to all forms of physical expression, from work to sports to hobbies to fun to bed. You can, and should, activate and recruit your core with all activities….