Are you looking for washboard abs or a  6- pack? If your answer is “yes”, read no further. This bite-size blog is about armor plating your spine, not ego or vanity.

So really, how many crunches or planks are you really going to do? And what’s the “why“ behind doing them? Knowing the anatomy and physiology (structure and function) of your core, and the “why’s” and “how’s” of your movements, will help you design your perfect core stability program.

Think of your “core” as more of a “column”.

Your core is made up of more than just your front abdominal muscles. You also have sides and back components — glutes, lats, quadratus lumborum.  

But wait, there’s more…

Your pelvic diaphragm —  a multi-layered, intricate system of muscles, bones fashion, and ligaments —  is the floor of your core stability system. 

Your primary breathing tool, your diaphragm, is the roof of your core stability system.  

With all this in mind, use these tips when training your core:

• Train your core circumferentially, targeting the front, back, and sides.
• Involve concentrated breathwork during your core training to involve your diaphragm roof.
• Learn pelvic diaphragm exercises to strengthen your muscular floor. 

Looking to armor plate your spine, decrease injury, and build a solid core foundation for throwing, pressing, running, spinning, dancing? Know your C.O.R.E. anatomy for a more efficient and effective training program. The more you know, the better you grow. 

See how we break down your core column and much more in our C.O.R.E. 101 video.

Heal. Move. STABILIZE. Evolve.