Core strength impacts everything, from how we walk and bend to our posture, balance, and even our risk of injury. But despite what you may have thought, true core strength involves a lot more than banging out crunches.
I was lucky enough to grab a Q&A with VP of Training and Pvolve Head Trainer Dani Coleman to discuss the ins and outs of functional core strength and how to work it into a weekly routine.
What does a truly strong core look like functionally, and why does it matter at every age?
Core strength is foundational because it supports how we move in everyday life: stabilizing the spine, improving posture, and helping to reduce injury and prevent pain. Starting in our 30s, we are at risk of losing 3 to 8% of muscle mass per decade. So as we mature, building lean muscle mass and a strong core can help us maintain our functional independence.
At Pvolve, we train every aspect of your core so you are set up for success in everyday life: whether you're stepping off a curb, carrying groceries, or simply getting up from the floor. When we lack core strength, we put pressure on the rest of our body to pick up the slack and can be at a greater risk for injury, especially when it comes to things like falling.
Why aren’t static holds (like planks) enough for real-world strength?
Generally speaking, your core is composed of your rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, transverse abdominis, erector spinae, and pelvic floor. With that, while planks can be a great exercise selection, planks are only one exercise to consider when it comes training your core holistically.
I like to train the core largely while standing, through various dynamic movement patterns and rotations, so you can develop better body mechanics, body awareness, and core connection with your daily movements.
How can people train smarter with full-body, low-impact moves?
Full-body low-impact moves are beneficial as they can be efficient with your time, accessible to all fitness levels, a great option to help mitigate the stress on your joints and connective tissues, and can still drive results. Full-body low-impact movements encompass a wide range, allowing you to create a balanced routine that incorporates activities such as strength training, cardio, and mobility.