Building Core Stability
Core stability training is essential to sports performance and injury prevention. This is because body's core muscles are the foundation for all other movement.
The muscles of the torso stabilise the spine and provide a solid foundation for movement in the extremities. These core muscles lie deep within the torso and attach to the spine, pelvis and the muscles that support the scapula. When these muscles contract, we support our spine, pelvis and shoulders so that we cushion the work of those major bones and their connective ligaments and create a solid base. We can then generate powerful movements of the extremities without straining the connective joints.
Training the muscles of the core also corrects postural imbalances that lead to injuries.
Core strengthening involves using many muscles in a coordinated movement, rather than isolating a specific joint as is undertaken in most weight lifting for example
Abdominal bracing is the main technique used during core exercise training. It refers to the contraction of the abdominal muscles. In Pilates this is also called ‘scooping’. To scoop or brace effectively, you attempt to pull your navel back in toward your spine as though you are trying to get your belly into pair of tight jeans or sucking up something very thick through a very thin straw! This action activates the transverse abdominus or TVA, the cradle of muscles that support the spine. Be careful not to hold your breath – you should be able to breathe evenly while bracing – and the constant re-evaluation of the TVA during the day will ensure your abs remain strong
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