80% of the American population does not get the recommended amount of exercise.
That harrowing number is a large contributor to the obesity epidemic this country has been battling for decades.
While it may not seem like an accomplishment, you taking the time to read this post on exercise puts you in an elite group of people that are, at very least, interested in fitness and consequently, have a much better chance of taking action on improving your physical strength.
Our aim is to help you move towards that end by sharing with you the benefits of strong core muscles in hopes of inspiring you to not only work out but to focus on a muscle group that we feel is among the most important in your body.
Curious to know how core muscles can have an impact on your life? Keep reading to find out.
1. Lower Back Pain Relief
Millions of Americans struggle with lower back pain.
While the cause of that pain can be brought about by several factors, much of it can be mitigated through better core strength.
When you work your core, you give your back additional support that can help relieve stress on your spine.
That should enable you to move better, for longer periods of time without experiencing discomfort.
Note that if you’re already experiencing back pain, your core training should be guided by a health professional so you don’t exacerbate your issues in your quest to fix them.
2. Better Balance
Increased back and spine support means better balance.
We’re not just talking about better balance when working out either, we’re talking about balancing better as you move through your day to day activities.
Do you ever wonder why seniors are prone to falling?
That phenomenon is often attributed to muscle deterioration, particularity in the core, which makes the possibility of leaning and falling higher.
By targeting your core during your workouts, you’ll reduce your risk of serious fall-related injuries which in some cases could save your life.
3. Improved Breathing
Breathing isn’t a benefit of strong core muscles line-item that’s discussed much but believe us when we say that it’s something you’ll want to keep in mind.
Several health experts connect the quality of your breath to the quality of your life and for good reason.
The more intention you breathe with, the better you’ll oxygenate your cells which can be integral in preventing cancer and other debilitating diseases.
With a strong core, you’ll be able to control your breath better with your diaphragm which will leave you feeling more energized throughout the day.
4. Increased Ease of Physical Activities
Do you find yourself huffing and puffing after taking leisurely walks?
Are you the first person to call for a break when playing casual sports at family gatherings?
If you fall into those buckets, focusing on your core strength can net you serious improvement.
Much of the core strength’s ability to help you through physical activities comes from the breathing and balance benefits we’ve discussed.
With your body breathing better and working less to keep your equilibrium, you’ll find that you have much more stamina.
5. Great Looking Vanity Muscles
While not necessarily a functional benefit, let’s face it; many of us work out because we want to look great.
And make no mistake that having great looking abs is one of the best form investments you can make while working out.
Great abs shine during summers on the beach and can serve as a pleasant surprise to onlookers during those cold winter nights when you and your friends find a warm hot tub to slip into while relaxing underneath the stars.
6. Accident Prevention
We’ve seen time and again people with strong cores get into fewer accidents when at the gym.
That connection largely boils down to the level of control having a strong core enables.
When you’re doing activities like lifting weights, it’s imperative that your body is able to stay stable while moving through its motions.
Any instability in movement could lead to putting undue pressure on unintended parts of your body which can cause serious injuries.
Remember, those that stay safe in the gym are those that keep working out.
There’s nothing worst than having to take months off from exercise in order to recover from injury.
7. Noticeable Posture Upgrade
Having a great posture can change your whole look.
If that sounds like something you’d like to pursue, rejoice in the fact that great core strength can help support a healthy posture.
By now, you should know that a strong core means a strong, supported back.
Combine that with keeping your chin up and shoulders back and you’ll have a brand new strut to show off.
8. Workout Inspiration
The biggest challenge when it comes to getting yourself into the gym now versus tomorrow or the next day is feeling inspired.
Having a strong core and enjoying the form and function benefits that can bring gives you the push you need to never procrastinate and to keep investing in your body.
Armed with that inspiration, you can crush our fitness goals!
You Now Know the Benefits of Strong Core Muscles
Now that you’re aware of the benefits of strong core muscles, we hope you’ll make the effort to start improving your core strength.
Reading about getting strong is easy.
Taking steps to achieve strength is much harder.
Know that our team is here to help you through every step of your fitness journey so if you’d like additional insight on exercise, please, check out more of the content on our blog!