Why core training isn't all about the "abs"

You hear the word core training and you think countless situps, planks, and exercises that target the core to get a flat 6 pack.

But it isn't all about the exterior. You might have excess skin or have a fat belly yet have a fantastically functioning core. The opposite is also true; You may have a instaworthy washboard stomach but have leaking incontinence, pelvic pain or prolapse.

Getting ripped abs sometimes comes at the cost of our bodily functions. Many of those who suck in their bellies to hide the bulge create excessive tension in the pelvic and core muscles. This tension leads to muscles that are in a more fixed, tighter position and lack the lengthening and relaxation needed in a muscle. This may lead to the mentioned issues.

That is why core training, stripped back to its most simplest form, connects us to the pelvic floor, diaphragm and transverse abdominals. Of course, the 6 pack rectus abdominals and obliques and other well known "core muscles" play important roles in a functioning core. I would even argue the glutes play a crucial role in the core!

But we want to start at the foundation and work out way up before hitting the obvious muscles. When we work inside out, we set ourselves up for greater success in the long term.

With the inner core working well, we can then add more load (weights) and impact (running etc) progressively. And it maybe that the outer core doesn't look like its strong, or functional? And that's ok! In the words of Inmesit from mummy fitness "Your aesthetics do not determine your athletics".

The core is a complex part of our body and one that many of us don't know how to connect into. The Re.Connect Core Restore programme guides you through how to connect, why it's important and sets you up for the later on success; Less leaks, more fun! You can find the self paced programme here.