A strong core is an important base for all other physical activities. When most people think of their core, they picture the abdominal muscles. But the abs are just one part – the core is also made up of many muscles along the spine and those in the pelvis and hips. 

These muscles are critical for a number of reasons. Surrounding the body’s midsection, they protect and support several internal organs. It’s well-documented that a strong core contributes to better athletic performance, but it also directly affects everyday life. The abs, obliques, and mid/lower back muscles are important for balance and stability. Strengthening them can lead to better health and lower fall risk at the body ages. It can also help with posture, especially for those of us who spend a lot of time sitting at a desk. Though sitting for many hours may seem “easy,” it surprisingly puts a large strain on the body. Developing a solid core can take some pressure off the lower back and hips, aiding posture while seated or standing. These muscles, though small in comparison to others, engage with nearly every movement we do. Whether swinging a tennis racket or golf club, shooting a basketball, or even everyday tasks like reaching to grab something from a shelf or picking up a package, the core is doing a lot of work!

Strengthening your core means more than just crunches (though those are good for you too!). MINT now offers two core-focused classes. For a quick but effective workout, try MINT Core, a targeted 25-minute class that focuses on strength and definition. For a longer session that concentrates on abdominals and obliques but also works surrounding muscles, check out the 50-minute Core Circuit class (click here to grab a spot in the next class). Looking to do something on your own? We recently upgraded the studio at the front of the club (next to the member lounge) to our dedicated Core and Stretch area! Additionally, if this is something you want to hone in on, personal training is always a great option.