All I Want For Christmas Is A Strong Core
We have probably all heard the word ‘core’. When you refer to core strength, most often ab workouts, sit-ups and six-pack abs are often the first things that come to mind. But the truth is, abdominals are only a small part of the system of muscles that make up your core. A strong core is fundamental and much more important than the superficial associations that are all too common. The core tends to be the foundation of power, strength, and stability.
Not only does the core facilitate movement, but it houses and protects your inner organs and central nervous system. Whether you’re hitting a tennis ball, lifting groceries or a little one, mopping the floor or recovering from an injury, the necessary motions either originate in your core, or move through it. To put it simply, your core muscles underpin almost everything you do.
With that background, why exactly do chiropractors reiterate the importance of a strong core? Well, we’re about to tell you.
A strong core is how you maintain your posture and keep good alignment. Individuals are often prone to pain or bad alignment when they have poor posture. Poor posture isn’t just a bad habit; weak core muscles contribute to your slouching behavior, which ultimately leads to increased aches and pains. By ensuring your core is strong and you have good posture, it lessens the wear and tear on your spine and allows you to breathe deeply and easily transport oxygen to your muscles. It also allows you to gain the full benefits associated with exercising, by increasing your overall exercise output. Maintaining a strong core is like having your vehicle’s oil changed. It lets the system work as it is supposed to without added strain on its parts.
A stronger core ultimately leads to good posture and keeps your body aligned, which leaves you feeling better throughout the course of the day and any daily activities you do. It helps you sit or stand for long periods of time and good posture naturally projects more confidence, which is great for your mental and emotional health too!
A strong core reduces back pain. Back pain is one of the most common issues for Americans. It has been stated that four out of five Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. By engaging in exercises that promote well balanced core muscles, this can be prevented in many cases. Core exercises are often prescribed as part of an overall chiropractic care treatment plan to relieve back pain. By getting ahead of this issue, you could very well minimize the risk of developing that debilitating back pain.
Your core is a main central link in a chain that connects your upper and lower body. Weak, tight, or unbalanced core muscles can be detrimental to any of the above health benefits and in turn, affects you being able to comfortably and efficiently complete day-to-day tasks. There should be no more excuses or uncertainty surrounding what the benefits of a strong core entails; make sure you include core movements and exercises in a regular regime so you continue to feel great and improve your core health.
At Momentum Chiropractic we work through your issues, providing treatment to relieve short term pain and working with you to provide an individualized treatment plan to ensure prevention for the future. Contact us today to book an appointment, and have a safe and happy holiday season.