Core muscle training is an essential component of any training regimen. Whether you’re training for strength, endurance, or even just for bodily aesthetic, there will always be some form of core exercise incorporated into the routine. However, most people tend to overlook the value of anterior core training.
One reason for this is because the majority of beginners prioritize other muscle groups that grow quicker and larger, such as the chest, the arms, and sometimes even the legs. Some people will even argue that extensive anterior core training serves no purpose because heavy compound movements such as squats and deadlifts will already work your core sufficiently. However, here are some reasons why they’re wrong:
They Provide Body Stability During Heavy Loads
Core muscles are a potent supporting muscle group, and they provide the body with stability when carrying heavy loads. The gut area has no bones that can help serve as a means to stabilize the body.
Our arms are able to support weights that they carry because of the bones in our arms. Our legs are able to support our entire body weight because of the leg bones. Our core does not have bones that can fully support heavy weight, and our spines aren’t meant to support heavy weight.
Between the chest and the pelvis, only the core muscles are able to provide stability to our upper body when performing exercises like shoulder presses, squats, and deadlifts. Even bench presses require a stable core, even when the core doesn’t not fully support the weight the body is subjected to.
They Improve Static and Dynamic Posture
Posture is not just about the manner of how you stand, but it is also the manner of how you move. Static posture refers to your posture while standing still, while your dynamic posture refers to your posture as you move. The core muscles are important for both posture types as they help maintain the balance and stability of your upper body in other scenarios. The core is essential in many fitness disciplines such as pilates and yoga. A person with a weak core will not only slouch more often, that person will also likely be unable to walk upright with their head held up.
They Protect Your Body
Between the pelvis and the chest, there is nothing that protects your body save for your skin. The core muscles are what help keep you from injury as you perform rigorous activities such as running and strength training. In everything you do, your core plays a role in the movements you make. Strong abs will also enable you to perform better because the core functions as a junction that connects your upper body to your lower body. This allows for better balance and coordination.
The core is more than just a muscle meant for aesthetics. A stronger core yields quality of life improvements that can make you feel stronger, and move better. If you want to strengthen your core, you may consider the best exercises for your serratus anterior for great results.
