Working Your Core….Why?

Working Your Core….Why?

One of the least fun and liked exercises is core work. Why? Because it is hard and one of those areas that takes time to develop.

Core work is more then just ab work and working toward that “flat” stomach. You actually have two cores: an inner and an outer core. Your outer core is what everyone thinks of, the “washboard” abs, obliques (“side abs”), and your low back muscles. Your inner core is all the muscles that surround the spine itself.

In order to properly develop the outer core, you must develop the inner core. Developing the inner core means strengthening tiny muscles surrounding the spine as well as a layer of muscle that wraps around the abdominal and low back areas. This is your body’s natural girdle. If these muscles are not kept strong, then it’ll loosen up and contribute, among other things, to your stomach hanging out.

Most of us, me included are weak in this area. A huge contributor to this problem is laziness, or to be more precise and or slouching. By slouching in a chair, or while standing, the inner core muscles, are not being activated. As a result of not being activated, the inner core muscles weaken, leading to poor balance/stability, quickness, low back problems, etc.

By strengthening the core, you can improve in every other area of fitness and your daily life.

So how do you go about doing these dreaded exercises? Your core is no different than the rest of your muscles. You wouldn't work your shoulders every day and so you shouldn't work your core every day either. Your body needs recovery time In order to grow stronger and change. Work your core 2-3 days a week but not in a row.

BODY FLEX: This class is the perfect addition to your workout schedule. Increase lean muscle mass and boost your resting metabolic rate with this strength training class. Use hand weights, body bars, BOSU’s, stability balls, rubber tubing, and floor exercises to develop a toned, strong body. Please arrive 5 minutes early to set up.

Class Level: Beginner to Advanced.

BOSU & DRILLS: This class challenges your balance while taking cardiovascular drills that target gluts and thighs, and core strengthening exercises which will challenge your abs, back and waist. We will use the BOSU and medicine balls. Class Level: Intermediate to Advanced

CORE & STRENGTH: This class will offer overall body strengthening, with a focus on the core muscles. Strength training will increase lean muscle mass and raise the body's resting metabolism.

Level: Beginner to Advanced

These classes are offered at the fitness center and will help to strengthen your core. Check out the schedule on www.nilesfitness.com or give us a call at 847-588-8400