Core stability or core conditioning is the strengthening of the musculature that underlies the trunk, or “core” of the body. Strengthening these muscles helps stabilize the spine and pelvis, improving balance and strength of the entire body.
Although a number of activities can strengthen the core muscles of the body, yoga and Pilates are considered the most effective. Both types of activity have other benefits too, such as toning and lengthening the muscles, and—particularly for yoga—providing an important opportunity for spiritual renewal.
Affecting all movement
The body’s core muscles include the abdominals, the muscles of the hip girdle (pelvis), and those of your lower back. When the core muscles contract, they stabilize the shoulders, hips and spine, creating a solid base of support. The core muscles work in harmony, making it possible to perform most physical activities— from reaching to the top shelf of your closet, to executing the perfect golf swing, to simply bending over to pick up a parcel from your doorstep. Weakness in the core muscles increases your risk of having lower back pain and of sustaining a muscle injury. Since core stability reduces the risk of back injury and improves posture and balance, many health professionals recommend core strengthening exercises throughout life to help prevent age-related injuries due to falls and other mishaps.
Yoga, Pilates and other core strengtheners
You don’t need a gym membership or expensive exercise equipment to work the core muscles of your body. In fact, all you need is an exercise mat and a book or DVD that teaches you yoga, Pilates, or a core strengthening routine. The use of an exercise ball can make core strength exercises even more effective. Yoga, Pilates and other balance-related exercises have also become popular as organized classes at gyms, community centres and private studios. To help you improve your core strength, London Drugs stocks a variety of Zenzation Athletics exercise mats and physio balls.
These include:
- Premium Yoga Mats with non-slip surface. These are made with PVC and cotton for a natural feel and
- PurEarth® Eco Mats that are 100 percent durability, and are over twice as thick as standard mats. Recyclable and decomposable. These mats are 60 percent lighter than PVC mats and provide ultimate traction wet or dry.
- Zenzu ™ Physio Balls in various sizes. These extra-firm, non-slip balls are puncture resistant for your ultimate safety.
- Zenzu ™ Ball Chair with adjustable padded back rest. This fivelegged, wheeled chair takes pressure off the spine, releases muscle tension, corrects posture, improves balance and strengthens the torso.