STABILITY/CORE

Core muscle activity in healthy athletes precedes muscle activity in the extremities. This characteristic is absent or reversed in athletes with movement dysfunction.

It is important to develop strong core musculature in order to maintain a center of gravity and balance during athletic movements. Evolving the core is integral to optimal energy development and successful movement stabilization.

From a mechanical standpoint the core is considered to be the kinetic link between the upper and lower extremities.

"Core strength is the vital first link in energy development."

-Sciascia, Cromwell

FACT:

Spine buckling under load and in change of direction moments are knows mechanisms of injury.

Proper conditioning and stabilization of the core allows for efficient and powerful forces to generate through the core to the extremities. It enhances load bearing ability of the spine preventing buckling and increases muscular turgur (rigidity) creating an "armor" over vital structures during contact sports.

Neurologically, core muscle training for athletes is focused on developing greater motor control not maximal strength. This is achieved through an individual progression of exercises that utilize a variety of recruitment patterns similar to your specific sport or activity.

DID YOU KNOW?

Significant limitations with respect to mobility as well as strength asymmetries can create a need for the core to compensate resulting in performance deficits and possible injury.

Enhancing core strength is fundamental to optimizing movement. Once core is in place and athlete can develop the attributes that lead to better performance and reduce the risk of injury.