Exercise: Strengthening Your Core
Exercise: Strengthening Your CorePg 1TranscriptA key part of any exercise routine includes activities to strengthen your core.Your core is a band of muscle groups around your stomach, pelvis, hips and back. Together thesemuscles cushion your inner organs, link your upper and lower body, and support your spine andhead.Even when you are doing activities that focus on your arms and legs, much of the strength you useis coming from your core muscles. Building your core strength gives you the solid foundation youneed to do sports and other physical activities, but it also makes doing everyday tasks easier andsafer.Besides tightening your tummy, a strong core can improve your posture helping your spine andneck stay in line. This helps you stand straighter and sit taller. No slouching.And good posture also helps you to breathe easier. Standing tall helps open your airways andmakes inhaling and exhaling easier.A strong core can also prevent or reduce lower back pain, a common complaint for many people.Exercises like yoga and Pilates help strengthen the muscles around the spine, improve range ofmotion in your lower back, reduce discomfort, and prevent injuries that lead to pain.Balance and stability are also improved with core strength. If you slip walking on an icy sidewalk,or you suddenly get caught off balance, this core strength can help you regain your balance,preventing a potentially serious injury.And core strength can make daily activities like picking up your kids or walking upstairs easier. Ifyou can rely on your strong core muscles, you are less likely to strain other muscles.It’s never too late to begin to strengthen your core.And this doesn’t mean just doing sit up’s and ab work. Try Pilates, yoga or swimming. Golf, rowingand racket sports all rely on and build core strength. Planks are a great way to build core strengthand you don’t need any equipment to do them. And working with kettlebells or a stability ball canalso build core strength and can give you variety in your exercise routine.Whichever activities you choose to do to strengthen your core, try to fit in 3 sessions each week ofabout 10 to 15 minutes.You may choose to start your core strength training in a gym with a personal trainer. Your trainercan help you make a plan and can ensure you are doing each exercise safely.Or you may choose to do activities around your home, by yourself or with family or friends.If it has been a long time since you exercised, or if you have a health condition, talk to yourhealthcare provider before you start a routine to ensure your goals are doable and safe.This program is for informational purposes only; for all health related issues please contact your healthcareprovider. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this videofor medical decision making. gn_10218_98 ©Milner-Fenwick, Inc.Exercise: Strengthening Your CorePg 2Your core is an important muscle group that cannot be ignored. As you begin to strengthen yourcore, you will notice the increased health benefits and feel confident you are building a strongeryou.This program is for informational purposes only; for all health related issues please contact your healthcareprovider. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this videofor medical decision making. gn_10218_98 ©Milner-Fenwick, Inc.
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