[Vickie]

The simple truth, Trig, is that the core muscles are the large muscles of the body that provide the power for the movements that provide free and full range of motion Most people think that core training is limited to the torso, mainly abdominals and back, but that is anatomically incorrect. One day we'll really explore the anatomy of the muscles. Anyway, that is a gross oversimplification but it is at the heart of the matter.

A really balanced resistance training program wil address these issues. Now the secret is to know how to organize your exercises. Most people don't have a balanced frame so when they start a program that looks balanced ,they are actually neglecting to recognize the functional individuality of their own physical needs. One person may need more abdominal work, someone else may need more work in the functional hip muscles, another the back, someone else might find very little work get's everything moving and someone who looks like they have it all together may find a more complicated program is made to order.

Now let me state here that I consider a balanced strength training program to include resistance training (whether it's weights, bands, medicine balls or your own body weight) and you must also have a flexibility program that correlates. Your muscles have two primary functions, contract for power and flexibility for counter balance. It is the perfect orchestration of these two functions with the appropriate muscles that keep the spine neutral. The better the communication between these two functions, the more range you can accomplish and the less potential for injury and thereby negative symptom you will experience.

This is as "lay person" languaged as I can make it and I think it is important to be that basic. I use kinesiology (muscle testing) to determine the orchestration of my clients programs because it looks beyond the obvious imbalances and attends to the way the muscles work together; which could also be termed the way the muscles communicate. It isn't always just mechanics. There are many neurological, emotional, behavioral, and chemical components to the way a body works.

Whoa, you might be thinking. Be not disuaded, much good work can begin with a sound program and some good instruction. If you can find someone to do a kinesthetic survey, all the better. But there are good trainers out there that know how to work more specifically with your physiology. You just have to be willing to interview a few.

For the record I should point out that the popularity of core training was inspired by the popularity of pilates in the last few years. I have been asked about this mode of training a number of times and could refer to previous posts. Mainly I would say that if you are considering this version of core training you still need to interview and even observe a class before you attend. With some of the permanent spinal disabilities I live with (without pain or diminished life activity, by the way) I needed a pilates facility that could address a more general population with really talented teachers. I found one, but not without rejecting a few reputable facilities in the process. You have to pay attention to your needs. Period.

Vik