Working on your ‘core’ to avoid injury, maintain a better riding posture and reduce fatigue has been a dominant trend of the last two decades. However, there’s a great deal of evidence to suggest that integrating conventional, heavier resistance training which focuses on building overall muscle strength and endurance is a better use of time.
Two examples of such exercises are the weighted squat, and the plank. A plank primarily targets the core muscles, including the rectus abdominis, transverse abdominis, and obliques, while also engaging the shoulders, chest, and lower back muscles to stabilise the body, for a 2-minute exercise that can be done anywhere it does a lot for you. On the other hand, a weighted resistance exercise such as a squat predominantly works the muscles of the lower body, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, while also engaging the core to maintain proper posture. Both exercises enhance overall muscle strength and endurance; however, the plank focuses more on core stabilisation and upper body endurance, whereas the squat builds lower body strength and power.
