Your Core Isn’t Weak.

“Engage your core” is a common phrase in the exercise world.

But the more I understand how our core functions and is intimately tied to the nervous system, the stronger my consideration is to completely ditch the cue.

Our core canister is robust and dynamic. It contains muscular tissue, organs, vital structures like the spine, ribcage, and pelvis, and a multitude of other system components such as fascia, connective tissue, blood, lymph, and nerves. The core is an interconnected system and works in relation to our breath, our joint positions and posture, stored movement patterns, stress responses, our personality, and so much more.

The idea that when we need to use the core we simply need to “engage” the muscles involved is overly simplistic, and in my opinion, ignores the incredible nature of how the body works.

The core system is automatic by nature. When we use our limbs in any capacity, the core is involved, as it facilitates and tempers movement. When we reach up to grab something from the top cupboard, we don’t need to tell the core to engage or activate. It already knows.

Certainly if you’re lifting something heavier (such as your 40lb child or a loaded barbell), there is more response required but that response happens on a spectrum. The body can differentiate between grabbing a container of flour from the cupboard and deadlifting your body weight from the floor.

For most of us, our day to day activities require minimal automation, and for more demanding activities, focused training with appropriate progressions will sufficiently prepare the body’s responses.

My point here is: you can trust your core to support you. It’s been doing that all along.