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Health & Fitness

Why is the Core So Important?

The core has become an everyday term in fitness but what is it exactly and why is it so important?  The core is the abdominal muscles, glutes and the entire back area that connects to your spinal cord and supports the spine.  The core is made up of the upper abs, obliques, and the very deep layer of abdominal muscles. These deep muscles are not worked by simple exercises such as crunches and require a more intensive workout like Pilates to strengthen the core.  When you have a strong core, the weight of supporting your body is not placed on your bones solely. 

Increasing your core strength will create a leaner appearance by cinching your waistline and giving you a flatter stomach.  A strong core will protect your spine which is very important as many of us sit at a desk in front of a screen all day. A strong core is a preventative measure against future back pain. You will notice an increase in your balance if your practice sports like paddle boarding, running, snowboarding, golf, or tennis with a strong core. Another benefit of core exercises is improved lung capacity. Core muscles are connected to the diaphragm so working out these muscle groups will enhance one’s ability to inhale and exhale completely. If the body is able to take in more oxygen, the heart is able to pump more blood, improving the overall performance of the body.  The benefits of a strong core generated by practicing a core-centric workout like Pilates not only build abdominal muscles but improve your overall health and wellness.  

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