Benefits of Balance & Core Workout Exercises

Balance and core workout exercises are misunderstood the world over as people think that they only help in developing six-pack abs.

However, outward appearances are a small part of the core and balance workouts. The core actually consists of many different muscles that stabilize the spine and pelvis, running through the entire length of the torso, front and back. A strong base of balance and core workouts prepare you for powerful movement in exercising. Today, Bangalore-based body transformation expert, Wanitha Ashok helps us decode the importance of balance and core workouts

Core exercises improve your balance and stability: Core workouts are most important and least addressed by most. The core is known as the power house of the system as this is where movements generate from .The strong core also protects the lower back from taking impact and allows a person to work efficiently by keeping them injury free. It also improves balance and stability as most core exercises are based on balance engaging the core. With due course of time, stability is improved too.

Core exercises can help tone your abs: It tones the mid section as it's basically an isolation workout of the muscles. It tightly packs the muscles in the abs area and visually gives a feeling of weight loss. And these exercises can be done everyday unlike other weight training exercises. You can chose from 2- 3 different exercises and you will require about 5 minutes of your time to get fit and strong in the mid section.

Strong core muscles make it easier to do most physical activities: The limbs are connected to the core and movements depend on the core, thus filling you up with energy all day long. A strong core can make you work faster, harder and longer.

Tips for being cautious during core exercises: It's good to execute the workout in front on a mirror so corrections can be made in alignment. The most important factor is to activate the abdominal muscle during execution .This can be done by coughing once and holding the contraction that happens when you cough. Square the hips and shoulders to engage the pelvic floor. The basic know hows to align and execute the exercise are very important. Therefore, taking guidance from a qualified fitness professional is important.

Core exercises don't require specialized equipment or a gym membership: We can do core and balance workouts at the comfort of our home at any time. And it does not take much time. No equipments are required to work on strengthening the core. However, performing core workouts at the gym sets the right mood. Beginners must take care to workout under the guidance of the professional trainer as some core exercises require alignment and balance.

Let's look at three at-home core strength exercises:

Super man: Lie face down on the floor with arms stretched. Raise the right arm and left leg above the ground, hold for 3 seconds and relax.

Plank: Lie face down, with forearms and toes on the floor and a straight torso. Set your eyes on the floor. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Relapse.

Supine bridge: Lie flat on the floor with eyes set on the ceiling. Align feet under your knees and hands just outside and under shoulders. Now push your hips up till you have a straight line right from your knees to shoulders. Maintain a straight line posture as far as possible.

Courtsey: Times of India.com