Favorite Methods of Core Training

455lbs @ 150lbs body weight

So we should all be on the same page.  We should all expect that the core is a big limiting factor when it comes to functional strength (the useful kind of strength you can use to get work done).  We should understand that while it’s ok to use machines, our bread and butter should be free weights and skill training.  We should also be aware of some of the exercises we can use to strengthen the core.

I am not going to show an encyclopedia of exercises because there are just too many great sites on the web that already do a better job of this than I ever could.

They have them sorted by name, the major muscle groups, and anything else you could want.

They even have an Android phone app that lets you pick parts of the body and it gives you a list of exercise videos for that particular part.

This way you can literally see the correct form on your phone while in the gym before you do the exercise.

So I’ll be taking the time that I would have spent in that endeavor and investing it in less redundant things.

435lbs squat @ 150 lbs body weight

My favorite core exercises are the deadlift, ab wheel, hanging leg raises, hyper extensions, and good mornings.

Other movements I do that involve core strength are the squat, sit-ups, glute-ham raises, and standing military presses.

Basically, the secret to my core strength is I like to do lots of basic barbell movements standing up.  This forces your core to come up to speed to meet your objectives.

I then us my sideways pull-up and / or hanging plank as a litmus test to see if I’m where I need to be.

I will also notice deficiencies when I climb since the core plays a large role in very steep climbing.

It is my hope that my little blurbs have encouraged you to focus a little more time and energy on your core strength in order to get you closer to your fitness goals.

My next post will be a closer look at the sideways pull-up for those that would like to try it.  It is easier than it looks.