Core Strength Is More Than Abs...

You need a strong core to be a better runner, but doing 100 situps a day isn't the answer! Physiotherapist and trail runner Karine Bezuidenhout tells all.

- Karine Bezuidenhout

Functionally human bodies work in slings, the core connects the upper body and lower body and functions as a strong base for these slings to function with ease and strength.

When we run with inefficiencies within these functional slings, certain structures constantly overwork, which can cause injury.

The structures that can overwork can be structures like our feet, ankles, knees, hips, or our cardiovascular system. This means we get tired unnecessarily early or struggle to recover with ease once we at last get to the top of that beautiful mountain.

The core also influences our balance. If your core is not able to engage correctly through the full range, you might be more prone to roll an ankle or struggle to enjoy technical downhill running. Having a functionally strong core will allow you to have even more fun on the trails.

Core myths

Many people believe that a strong core means having a constantly tight or braced core.

A strong core, like any functional muscle group, should be able to lengthen and contract, and be functionally strong through its full range. If you have constantly tight hamstrings, they eventually cause inefficiency or injury, and the same is true for a consistently braced or tight core.

When we sit for long periods of our day, certain parts of our core can be overactive or tight to compensate for the parts with lower muscle tone.

Another common misconception we have about the core is that a beautiful six-pack is the only part of the core that matters.

Anatomy lesson