Switch On – Core Activation
We often mistake the core for being a visible six-pack. However, the core muscles actually span the whole of the spine down into the hips. They are there to, maintain posture, keep you balanced, ensure that the theoretic region moves well with the lumbar region of the spine, protect the organs, help with reducing wear and tear and protect discs and ligaments of the spine.
When the important muscles are not performing optimally, more ‘superficial’ muscles step in to take the strain, which means that you can have a wonderful six-pack and still have a weak core.
Did you know that your glutes are just as important for a strong healthy core as the ones directly around the spine? If your glutes are not playing their role correctly, the lower back and hip flexor group with step in to compensate, often this is accompanied by a tightening of the psoas. What does this mean for you?
Firstly, your workouts will be less effective. In fact, your gym sessions may increase the problem and that will inevitably slow or stop any strength training progress.
Secondly, if some muscles are very enthusiastic because others are just lazy, your whole body will fatigue very quickly. Poor spinal alignment will affect your nervous, immune and digestive systems.
Thirdly, when the spine is in a maintained neutral position and correctly supported, your flexibility will improve tenfold. all joints will function well and uninterrupted.
So what are we saying? Switch On – Core Activation aims to improve the strength and function of the muscles in your whole body, rather than trying to improve how your body looks. This will help you feel more energized, stronger, and healthier, improve your immunity and flexibility reduce your chances of injury, improve your gym performance and aid in better injury recovery.