Tuesday, May 10, 2011

How does the core function?

The word “core” refers to the area of your body between your diaphragm and your pelvic floor. It includes all the joints of the lumbar spine as well as those of the low thorax (chest) and the pelvis (go to blog dated March 8, 2011). Deep core muscles are also called the inner unit muscles.

Current research has shown that the inner unit muscles function differently from the superficial core muscles (oblique abdominals, rectus abdominus and long back muscles). These muscles (deep core muscles) not only prepare us for movement but they work no matter what we do. They are not movement or direction dependent. The inner unit muscles work like a harmonious chord, in synergy with one another, as they anticipate the impending loads that are about to come.

The timing and amplitude of their contraction is vitally important if they are to provide stability to the joints of the back and pelvis. Proper training of the core should focus on their timing and co-activation with the other inner unit muscles. We train first for function and activation of the core (inner unit); once the core is active, strong and functional, we can perform exercises that integrate the inner unit with the rest of the body.




Email me your questions and concerns at info@gaiaadventures.com. I am here to help you train you and your clients.

Catherine D'Aoust at GAIA Adventures
http://www.gaiaadventures.com (click here to access my blog, Facebook and Twitter links)


UPCOMING EVENTS:

Core Activation and Assessment Techniques mini-workshop
Sunday May 29, 10 to 12:00pm in Vancouver, 2 credits MTABC and BCRPA
Registration fee only $97.00 (taxes included) for one workshop, $250.00 for all three with an added value of my professional DVD).
To register email info@gaiaadventures.com or call 604 329.1257. I look forward to meeting you.

My next stability ball workshop (basic 2 day) Vancouver June 17,18 (basic) sign up for 1 or 2 days or June 19 (advanced body ball workshop) accredited for Massage therapists and Personal Trainers. I hope you can join me.


Catherine D’Aoust at GAIA Adventures
http://www.gaiaadventures.com

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