What’s All the Fuss About the Core?

Q: What makes the core special?

- Many movements originate in the core muscles, from taking a step to reaching out your arm for that cup of coffee. - The core muscles support and mobilize the relatively unstable spinal column. - Along with the ribcage, muscles associated with the core are responsible for protecting our sensitive visceral organs and - Structures in the core often “store” emotional memories and stresses associated with fear, protecting, and trauma. - Injuries to and postural deviations in the core have outsized impacts on the function of the rest of the body and can be immensely debilitating.

1 day ago
2 min read

In the past decade “core strength” has become a physical health mantra. It features in pilates, yoga, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and strength training. But what is this “core” we speak of and why does it deserve an exalted pedestal on the mantle of fitness?

Wooden sculpture of an apple core — Photo Credit: Gundula Vogel

The core comprises an area near the center of the body, from the hip and pelvis up to about the middle of the torso. While there is an array of fascinating organs and functions within this region, core strength and stability rely on (1) a host of fun-to-pronounce muscles that support and mobilize your lower back and hips such as the transversus abdominus, quadratus lumborum, multifidi, and erector spinae; (2) bones, including the lower spine, the sacrum, and those comprising the pelvis; and (3) joints between bones.

What makes the core special?

Many movements originate in the core muscles, from taking a step to reaching out your arm for that cup of coffee.
The core muscles support and mobilize the relatively unstable spinal column.
Along with the ribcage, muscles associated with the core are responsible for protecting our sensitive visceral organs and
Structures in the core often “store” emotional memories and stresses associated with fear, protecting, and trauma.
Injuries to and postural deviations in the core have outsized impacts on the function of the rest of the body and can be immensely debilitating.

We can support the core that supports us in many ways. Some are simple (though not necessarily easy) such as being aware of our seated posture and taking a walk regularly. Exercising can be a boon to our core strength and stability when done properly. On the flip-side, improper or excessive exercise can compromise the core. A few hints to maintain a healthy core and avoid injury are:

Maintain good posture when sitting and moving, and if you notice your posture is creeping south take a break from what you’re doing.
When taking-up a new exercise or sport, ease into it and seek advice from an instructor or expert.
If you experience pain in your lower back or hips, give whatever you’re doing a rest rather than pushing through it.

In conclusion: Have you been slouching while reading? Brace that core!

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