Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/817011
18 WAC Magazine | wac.net Core Training Instructor Insights Beyond Heel Pain Meet the Athlete A N I TA N O W A C K A Training the core A central topic for all gym-goers By Maureen Eggers, Women's & Coed Fitness Manager Let me begin by making two almost identical statements. ese days, almost all gym-goers have a couple of exercises in their workout arsenal to train their abs. ese days, almost all gym-goers have a couple of exercises in their workout arsenal to train their core. Let's face it, the term "core" is trendy— even a bit sexy—and has all but replaced "abs" in the workout lexicon. Although the above statements might be true, they are not the same. at means many of us have missed the boat on core strength. Core defined e "core" includes everything that makes up the trunk of the body, includ- ing the shoulder girdle, pelvis, back, and abdominals. ese muscles are the first to fire anytime you move your body. Training these areas makes us stronger and more efficient as human beings. Posture improves, tummies flatten, injuries are reduced or eliminated, and movement becomes better and easier. For those of you who saw six-pack abs dancing in your head at the begin- ning of this article, we now have a more expansive picture of the core. Athletics and aesthetics What your core really needs depends on what you are trying to accomplish. Do you want to improve your golf swing or tennis stroke? Stave off knee or shoulder injury? Look amazing in skinny jeans? Based on your personal challenges Living Fit 1 2 Maureen Eggers demonstrates the Single Leg Dead Lift, great for building core strength, improving balance and stability, and toning your legs and buttocks. u