If you’ve spent any time in a Pilates class, on a reformer carriage, or following a YouTube abs workout at home, you’ll know the usual suspects well: crunches, leg lowers, planks held just long enough to make you question your life choices. They’re effective, sure, but after years of cycling through the same moves, my core routine had begun to feel a little stale.
And yet, core strength is one of the most foundational elements of fitness, supporting posture, balance, spinal stability and efficient, injury-resistant movement. Studies show that targeted core training can improve posture and spinal alignment, while other evidence suggests it plays a role in improving trunk stability and overall quality of life - particularly in postpartum women. Strengthening the muscles around your midsection has also been linked to reduced lower back pain and improved movement efficiency in everyday life.
