The Truth About Core Training: It’s Not Just About Abs
When most people hear "core training," they immediately think of six-pack abs and endless crunches. But your core is more than just a visual goal—it’s your body’s powerhouse. Whether you're recovering from an injury, lifting weights, or just getting out of bed without pain, your core plays a crucial role.
Let’s bust the myths and explore what core training should actually look like.
1. Your Core Is More Than Just Your Abs
The core includes your abdominal muscles, yes—but also your obliques, lower back, pelvic floor, and even your glutes. These muscles work together to stabilize your spine and transfer force through your body when you move.
A weak core isn’t just a fitness issue—it can affect posture, increase risk of injury, and even lead to chronic pain.
2. Crunches Aren’t Enough (and Could Be Doing More Harm Than Good)
Crunches are often overused and misunderstood. When done incorrectly or excessively, they can strain your neck, compress your spine, and reinforce poor posture. More importantly, they don’t target deeper core muscles like your transverse abdominis—which is key to real core strength.
3. What Real Core Training Looks Like
At AC Fitness, core training focuses on function, not just form. That means building strength and stability from the inside out. Some of the most effective core exercises don’t look flashy at all:
Dead bugs
Bird dogs
Planks and side planks
Glute bridges
Anti-rotation exercises like Pallof presses
These movements engage deep stabilizing muscles that support the spine and improve total-body performance.
4. Core Strength Helps With Injury Prevention & Recovery
If you’ve ever experienced low back pain or felt “off balance” during workouts, your core might be the missing link. A strong core helps distribute load more evenly, protect joints, and reduce stress on your spine—especially during compound lifts or daily movements like bending, twisting, and reaching.
5. Core Training = Better Movement in Everyday Life
Whether you’re a parent lifting your toddler, a runner wanting better stride efficiency, or someone recovering from a previous injury—core training gives you the control and connection your body needs.
If you're only training your core for aesthetics, you're missing out on its true potential. A well-trained core supports your whole body, enhances your workouts, and keeps you injury-free.
Ready to train your core the right way? Book a 1-on-1 session or join one of our functional training programs designed with your movement goals in mind.