Where It All Began...

The very first piece of writing on this Core Club experience, many years ago...

Core – always be learning

Everyone talks about core these days and it’s very easy to get lost in what it really means. So what is it?

Traditionally it means the system of muscles in the lower-trunk area including the lower back, abdomen and hips. These muscles work together and they provide support and mobility, and it is through them that all bodily movement, in every conceivable direction, originates.

The major core muscles include the spinal flexors, spinal extensors, hip flexors and hip extensors.

Spinal Flexors

The spinal flexors are more commonly known as the abdominals or the ‘abs’. The abdominal group consists of the rectus abdominis, transverse abdominis and internal and external obliques.

The rectus abdominis or ‘six pack’ is responsible for maintaining spinal stability and shortening the distance between your torso and your hips.

The transverse abdominis provides thoracic and pelvic stability.

Both the internal and external obliques are responsible for your ability to bend from side to side and rotate your torso.

Spinal Extensors

The spinal extensors include the erector spinae, quadratus lumborum and multifudus.

The erector spinae is a group of muscles and tendons that runs from the lumbar to the cervical spine. The group is responsible for stabilisation and movement of your spine.

The quadratus lumborum assists the diaphragm during inhalation and is responsible for side bending and extending the lumbar spine.

The multifudus plays an important role in stabilising three joints within the spine.

Hip Flexors & Extensors

The hip flexors are the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, sartorius, tensor fascia latae, pectineus, adductor longus, adductor brevis and gracilis.

The hip extensors include the gluteus maximus and the hamstring group, the bicep femoris, semitendinosus and semimembranosus.

The flexors and extensors act as the basement of the core supporting movement and allowing you to flex and extend your hips.

A Stronger Core equals a Stronger Body

The benefits?

Reduced back pain.

Better balance.

Better posture.

Better movement form.

A better life.