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Miriam E. Nelson, Ph.D Responds:
Miriam E. Nelson, PhD, of Tufts University and the best-selling author of the Strong Women book series, responds: Your "core" is made up of the distinct groups of muscles throughout your back and abdomen. It includes the abs group (rectus abdominus, obliques, and transverse abdominus), the main back group (erector spinae, latissimus dorsi, trapezius, and rhomboids), and a few deep back muscles. They are the foundation of your body's stability—particularly during movement—and are essential for balance and posture.
A strong core will help you to perform daily activities and prevent injuries. Using proper technique, do two or three different exercises every other day, equally working your abs and back. Simple core-strengthening moves include back extensions, crunches, and pelvic tilts. Core strengtheners can be done on the floor or on a stability ball. Other back exercises (using dumbbells, weight machines, or bands) are the lat pull-down, upper-back row, and the bent-forward fly. No matter your fitness goals, a strong core is essential.
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Miriam E. Nelson
Ph.D
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