Your body’s “core” is the group of muscles that make up your mid section, to include your stomach and lower back. This is where your center of gravity is located, and also where all of your body’s movements start.  Whether you are lifting your toddler or going for a 5 mile run, your core is the origin of these movements.

The importance of a strong core

Many people often overlook this area of their body in their fitness routines; unless they are trying to get those elusive six-pack abs we all strive for. Tight muscles are not the only reason to keep your core strong, however, and there are many benefits that outweigh the most common reason people work out the middle of their bodies.

Since your core is the center of your body’s motion, it makes sense that you would want it to be as strong as possible. When you have strong core muscles, the rest of your body works together well, leading to better fitness and less injury.

Core exercises are also a great way to alleviate lower back pain, as well as improve your balance, and as an added bonus, will tighten and tone your abs, resulting in that six-pack we all long for.

How to get a strong core

There are several muscles in your core and each layer needs to be worked properly for optimum performance. You can target each muscle separately, or you can work them all at once, although some experts say this is a less effective approach. Finding exercises that work all of your core muscles will give you the most effective work out.

Typical core exercises are things like crunches, sit ups, planks , and even squats. Like any workout, you should start slow to focus on form as well as avoid injuryThis can be tricky at first, especially if you’re a beginner, but the wrong movements are a surefire way to end up hurting yourself.

A tip that can help avoid injury

Before attempting any kind of core exercises on your own, you should consult a fitness professional who can not only tell you which movements will be most helpful to you and your routine based on your fitness goals, but will also help you prevent injury. This will not only make your program more fun, but less stressful as well. And if you are in a CFC bootcamp, you can rest assured our personal trainers will help you with this.

Doing core exercises should be an important part of your fitness routine, and you should do them regularly in order to get in shape, stay in shape and be in overall better health. Once you start doing these, you’ll be amazed at just how much better you look and feel.