Your core muscles are the strong link between your lower body and upper body. Every movement you make starts at or moves through your center. Therefore, a weak or tight core can translate into less strength out of your legs and arms.
It's value adding core work to your workout plan. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommend the next well-planned:
- At least two and a half hours (150 minutes) per week of moderate aerobic activity, or one quarter hour (75 minutes) of vigorous activity per week, or an equivalent combination of each. (During moderate activity, resembling brisk walking, you'll be able to talk, but not sing; during vigorous activity, resembling running, you'll be able to say not more than a couple of words while not having to catch your breath. )
- Twice weekly strength training sessions for all major muscle groups, including your core.
- Balance exercises.
Core work falls into the second and third categories: strength training and improving balance.
Because many traditional strength training routines don't include core work, your core muscles might not be ready for a tricky workout straight away. A basic workout routine that eases you into this training—as described in our special health report. Soft core exercises. – will permit you to develop safely.
No material on this site, no matter date, needs to be used as an alternative choice to direct medical advice out of your doctor or other qualified practitioner.