Core Workout Considerations To Maximize Your Results-Part 1

When it comes to workouts and exercise, a great deal of focus has been given to working the core. Very often the advice and recommendations surrounding the core are focused around improving the visual appearance of these muscles. Working the core however can also be focused in on supporting the spine, improving sport performance, and decreasing the risk of injury. Additionally, there are numerous options for working the core that involve different methods. In this article we’ll take a look at some of the larger, overall factors to consider when approaching the topic of your core workouts.

 

 

Choosing Your Primary Focus

Without a set destination it is difficult to choose the most appropriate and optimal path. Before you begin engaging in a core workout program, take some time to consider what your primary goals are. Someone training for sport performance is going to need to approach things quite a bit different than someone trying to increase core strength because their doctor told them it will help with back pain or a specific back problem. Sit down and write out some specific goals. Only then will you be able to properly chart out your course.

 

 

If you do have a back problem or other issue to consider with regard to your core workouts, make sure to check with your doctor for precautions and contraindications. A precaution, much as the term implies, means that you can do the exercise, but it should be entered into with caution. The person doing the exercise should stop doing it at the first sign of pain or problems. A contraindication simply means that the exercise is forbidden to be done. Certain back problems have contraindications. Others may have precautions. In addition to your doctor, you may also wish to contact a good licensed physical therapist and/or chiropractor.

 

 

Utilizing Machines For Your Core-Work

There are many great machines that have been designed over the years to work the various muscles of the core.  If you workout in a gym or fitness facility, they almost certainly have one or two core workout machines available, if not more. There are certain benefits of using machines for your core-work as opposed to other methods.

 

 

Benefit 1: Controlled Range Of Motion

First, machines have a controlled range of motion. The machines design only allows you to move so far. This makes doing the movement incorrectly less likely. This is particularly beneficial for those new to working out and those just getting back into things.

 

 

Benefit 2: Practicality of Use

Some people do not have the physical means to get on the floor, as is necessary for numerous core exercises. Machines make it feasible for those with physical challenges to engage their core. Core machines are also much more feasible for seniors, many of whom to not wish to get down on the floor. Getting in and out of machines is usually very practical, even for many who utilize walkers or wheelchairs.

 

 

Benefit 3: Ability To Choose Resistance Level

Unlike core exercises that involve your bodyweight, a core workout machine can allow you to select the level of resistance that you choose. This means you can start off very easy, get familiar with the movement, build up your strength, and progress as you are able.

 

 

One Consideration For Core Exercise Machines

There is one major factor to consider when using core exercise machines. I would not call this a downside necessarily, but rather something that may limit maximizing your core training. Machines by their nature operate in a controlled range of motion. This can be good for building core strength, however we don’t move in a controlled range of motion in daily life. Very often people move in multiple directions and angles while using core muscles for various activities. Most core machines simply do not train the body in this way. This doesn’t mean that machines have no value in your core workout routine. But it would be a good idea to incorporate other core training methods in addition to machines if your ability and access allow for it.

 

 

Core exercise machines are a great option, particularly for those new to working out, those with special considerations, or those who want greater ability to adjust their resistance level. The one major limitation they have is that they typically do not closely simulate the daily activities of the average person. Using machines and other forms of core training can help ensure a strong and functional core.   In part two of the series, I will go further into additional factors to consider when working core muscles that are often overlooked.

 

 

Paul Owens is a personal trainer in the Cleveland area. He is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and the National Council on Strength and Fitness. He is also a Corrective Exercise Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He can be reached at http://www.clevelandpersonaltraining.com.