Are you Activating Your Core Correctly?
Most people believe they understand how to activate their core, but the truth is that many of us do it incorrectly.
Poor core activation leads to poor mechanics, harming our spinal health and even our limb movements. But don't worry; seeing a physical therapist can help you learn proper muscle activation and movement patterns.
The advantages of appropriate core activation are:
Less injury
Better muscle development
Improved physique and strength
Even better sports performance and longevity
Many of us make the mistake of focusing on "six-pack" muscles like the rectus abdominis when it comes to core activation. But, these muscles are only a small part of the core. The muscles that make up the core are the transverse abdominis, rectus abdominis, obliques, and erector spinae. Correctly activating these muscles leads to improved mechanics and spinal health. However, incorrect core activation can result in poor mechanics and spinal pain. Inadequate core activation can also impact our extremity movements, resulting in pain and injury in our shoulders, hips, and knees.
At Elevate Physical Therapy, as part of a whole-body approach, we can teach you how to activate your core muscles and improve your movement patterns properly. Our therapists will teach you specific core-muscle exercises such as the plank, dead bug, bird dog, and side plank that help you learn how to activate your core. You'll be able to improve your mechanics by performing these exercises correctly. Correct core activation and movement patterns can help you prevent injury and improve your overall health and fitness.
If you or a loved one has recurring injuries and poor spinal health, speaking with a therapist at Elevate Physical Therapy may be beneficial. Elevate Physical Therapy can evaluate your situation and functional limitations and create a treatment plan that best suits your condition. Working with one of our physical therapists can help you learn how to activate your core muscles and improve your movement patterns properly. Make an appointment with our physical therapist today to take the first step toward improved quality of life.
