Core Strength Training and Abdominal Muscle Training are fairly synonymous these days.
Those designing their fitness routines should know, though, that there is much more to core strength exercises than just abdominal routines.
Abdominal muscles have a limited and specific set of actions.
Core exercises focus on the entire muscular structure that makes up the spine, pelvis, and torso.
If you look at a diagram of the muscles distributed throughout this bodily region, you start to get an idea of how many more muscles comprise the core in comparison to the abdominals.
For those who intend to strengthen their cores, it is important not to be limited to simple abdominal exercises.
Some of the muscles upon which you need to concentrate include the internal and external obliques, the transverse abdominis, the hip flexors, erector spinae, rectus abdominis, gluteus medius and minimus, gluteus maximus, hamstrings, piriformis, and hip abductors.
A long list, indeed! With this many muscles upon which to concentrate, it's easy to see why many fitness enthusiasts will actually devote an entire workout just to core strength.
By doing so, they maximize the benefits associated with a strong core.
One of the most attractive benefits of core strength training is the reduction in lower back pain.
Abdominals tend to get all the credit for benefitting the back, but a weak core is one of the primary culprits in low back pain.
Strengthening the core has the benefit of correcting bad posture and putting reduced strain on the spine.
Educated athletes are usually aware of the fantastic benefits of core strength training.
Recognizing that movement originates from the core of the body and not just the limbs, it's clear that a strong core offers greater stability and control.
Injuries are reduced when athletes compete with proper posture.
You don't have to join a gym to do a wide variety of core strengthening exercises.
Using just body weight, it is possible to do exercises that target all muscle groups contained in the core.
One of the most popular exercises is abdominal bracing.
In addition to abdominal bracing, you can do squats, push-ups, V-sits, hip lifts, lunges, and back extensions.
Search online or visit your local library to get information on correct techniques and effective numbers of repetitions for maximum benefit.
The simplest core strength program includes abdominal crunches and push-ups, so if you're just starting out, start there!