Gaining Core Strength Anywhere

Exercise is an important part of leading a healthy and well-balanced life. It takes conscience effort to incorporate exercise into an already busy schedule, but it is a valuable tool for the management of your health. With that being said, I want to start by talking about core strength.

I know there are many of you who have difficulty finding time to get to a gym, to work out for various reasons. But did you know, you can actually do a core workout at your desk, in your car, or even while you are cooking dinner.
Why core? Core strength is important for non-athletes, as well as athletes of all levels, since your core is your stabilizer for balance and strength. Many back injuries and lower back pain, can be eliminated or reduced by practicing core related exercises. If you are an athlete, you will gain more power and speed, plus your efficiency will be increased. The risk of injury is greatly decreased when you have a strong core.

So, here are a few ideas to start developing a stronger core when at your desk, in your car, cooking dinner, or anytime you think of it.

1.In the car: Tighten your abdominal muscles by trying to push your belly button back towards your spine at every light, and relax when you go. Do this every day and every time you are in the car.

2.At your desk: Tighten your abdominal muscles using the same technique as above for the length of time it may take to type a short paragraph. Relax for the time it takes to type a sentence and repeat 10 times. Try doing this at least 3 times a day for 3 sets.

3.Standing: Tighten your abdominal muscles while having a conversation with someone on the phone or in person, by tightening when they are speaking, and relaxing when you speak.

4.Cooking dinner: While you are waiting for something to boil, lie down on the floor and perform 10 or more sit-ups, while resting a large can or two of beans, soup, or other item on your chest for a little extra weight. This also helps so you won’t be tempted to put your hands behind your neck and pull, thus injuring your neck. You may also want to do the plank exercise for 3 sets of 30 sec. or more to strengthen the anterior and posterior muscles, and the lateral plank exercise for 3 sets of 30 sec. or more to strengthen your obliques.

If you are able, purchase a medicine ball (6lbs) or two (different weights), and a stability ball for home. With these two items you can perform a myriad of different
core exercises, without ever having to step foot in a gym.

Stayed tuned for more ideas.
Coach TL