Why do you need a strong core?

When people hear “core strength”, they often think of sit-ups or planks. In reality, your core isn’t about the exercises you do but more about how you move on a day to day basis.

Your core supports almost every movement you make, standing up, walking, lifting, reaching, hanging out washing, even sitting. When it’s working well, movement feels easier and more controlled. You’ll use less energy, everything feels more efficient. When it’s not, other areas tend to compensate, which is often where aches and pains start.

Hanging out washing requires you to engage your core

What Do We Mean by “Core”?

The core isn’t just your abs. It includes the muscles around your spine and pelvis, your diaphragm, and pelvic floor. Together, they provide support and stability while allowing you to move freely.

Think of the core as a support system rather than something you need to brace or hold tight all the time.

Core Strength in Daily Movement

Everyday activities rely on subtle core engagement:

• Standing up and sitting down

• Walking and balancing

• Lifting and carrying

• Twisting and reaching

If the core isn’t providing enough support, the body often compensates elsewhere, usually the lower back, hips, or shoulders.

It’s About Awareness, Not Tension

Good core function isn’t about pulling your stomach in or staying rigid.  Although some of this is required, particularly when you’ve not engaged it for some time. Too much tension can be just as unhelpful as too little.

Instead, the goal is awareness and timing, knowing how to engage the core when you need it, and relax it when you don’t.

Three Simple Ways to Improve Core Awareness

You don’t need intense workouts to get started. Try this:

1. Use your breath
   Breathe in through your nose, letting your ribs expand. As you breathe out, gently engage your lower tummy, don’t grip.

2. Move with control
   Pay attention to how you stand up, sit down, and turn. Aim for smooth, controlled movement rather than rushing

3. Engage before you move
   Before lifting, reaching, or changing position, lightly engage your core to support the movement.

Small changes in awareness can make a big difference.

The work I do with clients helps them focus on strength that supports real life, helping you move with more ease, confidence, and control.  If this is something of interest to you and you want to find out more about working with me, book a discovery call now.

---

About Sabrina

Sabrina is a movement specialist based in Worcester Park, London, helping people overcome pain, move better, and enjoy active, fulfilling lives. With expertise in sports and remedial massage, personal training, and the Emmett Technique, she works with clients to relieve pain, improve mobility, and build strength. Treatments and training sessions take place in her private home treatment and training room. If you would like to discuss your needs, book a Discovery Call.