Ripped Abs and No More Back Pain Series - Part I

Combat to the Core- Yes, posture is very important and determines the
In this recent news story, Combat to the Core,athete's ability to activate and engage the
Staff Sgt. Carlos Diaz discusses strengthening of ourappropriate musculature for specific movements. Bad
service men and women discusses a comprehensiveposture will spawn dysfunctional and compensation.
approach to their abdominal training.Pilates and yoga inherently promote better flexibility,
Here are a few excerpts:but how much is needed? Be careful as some yoga
"Core strength refers to abdominal and back musclesasanas engage extreme positions and could lead to
used to support the spine and keep bodies stablepromoting flexibility in areas that require stability,
and balanced."andnamely the lower lumbar. Improve the tension /
"In general, strength core exercises such as Pilateslength relationships of the musculature and
and yoga have become very popular over the yearssurrounding soft tissue and execute a balance of
because they concentrate on building good posture."movements, i.e. a push for a pull during your
In this article it also shows the service men andworkouts.
women engaging in sit-ups. Let's take this point by- Stop doing sit-ups! This hip flexor dominate exercise
point:only acts to exacerbate tight hips, anterior pelvic tilt,
- Yes, the "core" does involve the abdominals andglute dysfunction and over-active hamstrings. Get off
back, but what about the activation of the glutesyour back and start moving!
and hip complex and their role stabilizing the pelvis?