I think it’s safe to say that when people look at their bodies in the mirror, the first place they look is their stomach – people want a shredded mid-section – the coveted ‘six pack’. It’s kind of ironic when you think about it… the muscle that people care most about is the muscle that is almost always covered by clothing and that no one else really ever sees.
People put so much effort in trying to developing their abs (like doing tons of sit-ups), that they often neglect the other core muscles that are just as important. Developing your core muscles has many benefits, and should not be neglected. And, as we have found from experience, developing your core muscles helps to develop your abs.
What is the “core”?
The core muscles are actually a group of more than a couple dozen muscles in the lower back, stomach and hips. These muscles work together to keep the spine stabilized and to keep the body upright. These muscles are always working. They are critical for: bending forward and backward, any rotational movements, and twisting from side to side. Basically, your core muscles work in every movement you do.
Benefits of working out the core
If your core works in every movement you do, then a stronger core means you’ll be able to move better. Day to day tasks will be easier and you’ll be less prone to injury. Think of you core as your foundation. If a house is built on a solid foundation, it will be strong and more durable, where as a weak foundation house can be problematic. A stronger core will also help you get stronger in other areas. The core muscles support the spine and if your spine is supported solidly, then you’ll be able to lift more weights and maintain proper form. A strong core can also lead to good posture, which means less back pain.
What are the muscles of the core?
As you can see from the chart above, there are many muscles that make up the core. Here is a brief description of some of the major core muscles, and what they do.
Rectus Abdominus
The rectus abdominus the outer stomach muscle – it is also known as the “six pack” muscle.
Tranverse Abdominus (TVA)
This is the deepest muscle of all the abdominal muscles. It pulls your stomach in when you suck in. Engaging this muscle is very important in many exercises including pushups.
Hip Flexors
This group of muscles can be found in the lower part of you core. They play a major role in allowing the hips to flex. Having strong hip flexors will help when doing moves such as leg lowers.
Erector Spinae
The erector spinae sits in the lower back. It works with other muscles in the lower back to stabilize the spine and to allow the body to twist and bend backward.
Gluteus Maximus
This muscle is attached to the hip and is often at work in core movements
Strengthening these muscles will in turn strengthen all the muscles in your core.
External Abdominal Oblique
The obliques are abdominal muscles on each side of the body. These muscles help twist and rotate.
A lot of people think doing good old fashion sit-ups will get them their desired look, but unfortunately the chances are quite slim. If you focus on your entire core, you will start to develop abs.