Core Stability  

What is ‘Core Stability’? a phrase which has become popular with health professionals in recent years. Basically your ‘core’ refers to your deep abdominals, spinal muscles and muscles which support the scapula or shoulder blade. These muscles work together to stabilise your trunk, acting rather like a corset or splint. They provide a firm foundation for co-ordinated movements of the limbs.   The idea that we are only as strong as our weakest link is easy to understand. Why is it then that our training is often focused on this area, namely the abdominals, with little or no result? Mainly because the majority of people train this area purely for appearance rather than function without completely understanding the correct and simple techniques needed for optimum results. Therefore only working the superficial muscles, without the benefits of strengthening their deeper core muscles.   These are;

 Back Health - strong abdominals are considered essential in preventing back injuries; your transversus abdominis works in conjunction with your spinal muscles namely multifidus to stabilise your trunk.

Improved Posture - improved balance and control. 

Muscle Balance - working upon muscle imbalances to develop symmetry through a strong base with controlled movements.  

 All of our Personal Trainers at Pure are experts in stability training using simple equipment such as exercise balls, bosu, inflatable stability discs, foam rollers and wobble boards to provide you with the knowledge to get the best out of your workout.   Training on an unstable base e.g. an exercise ball increases the challenge to your everyday workout. As the ball is ‘wobbly’ you increase the amount of information (proprioception) being sent to the central nervous system. Simply put, improving your balance and co-ordination and automatically recruiting deeper muscles.   Using an exercise ball may seem like a relatively new fitness fad but in fact it has been used extensively in rehabilitation and physiotherapy for over 30 years.   All of the above aside, training with an exercise ball is quite simply good fun, brings a fresh approach to any workout, and is suitable for any age and level of fitness. Have a go!