Today I did Day 4 of Erin Motz's yoga challenge. Today's challenge was mostly abdominal work. Having a strong core is invaluable for a healthy body. Because many of your body's movements originate from your core, working towards improving its strength will enhance your posture, spinal alignment and stability.
A few reasons to consider improving your core strength:
Alleviates back pain - scientific research has shown that weak core muscles put one at increased risk of back ache and injury since the spine is not adequately supported.
Improves posture - core strengthening exercises work all of the muscles of the torso, improving posture and alignment. An improved posture decreases the risk of disc herniation and vertebral degeneration. Correct posture also fully opens the airway, leading to easier breathing.
Better athletic performance - all sporting activities rely on core strength for improved performance. For example, a rower engages their core as they paddle and a stronger core allows them to pull harder and faster. The core is the link between the upper and lower body, and it is what allows a golfer to swing the club to strike the ball, or a tennis player to optimise their racquet speed.
Safer everyday movement - daily tasks, such as carrying groceries or walking up a steep flight of stairs, become easier. This is because you not only have better control of your muscles, but you can more easily find your centre if you're caught off-balance.
This is quite a challenging workout, but I assure you that it is well worth it. You are most likely going to feel stiffness in your core the following day.
xoxo
Foxy
Sources:
http://www.canyonranch.com/your-health/fitness-movement/strength/core/the-many-body-benefits-core-strength
http://www.eatlivelife.com/2014/02/13/11-benefits-of-strong-core-muscles/
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