The center of your body is often referred to as your core. It encompasses the abdomen, back, hips and chest. Core muscles are incorporated in almost every movement of the human body.

One of the most important functions of your core is to support and stabilize the spine. Another function is the effective transfer and production of force during dynamic movements like running, lifting weights or picking up a bag of groceries out of the car. Research has shown that athletes with higher core stability have a lower risk of injury. And for people who experience lower back pain, this is particularly beneficial. 

A strong core benefits everyone from fitness enthusiast to people who are less active. If you want to protect your spine, perform day to day functions relatively easy and reduce injury, strengthen your core.

Front plank is a great exercise to do daily to improve your core strength. Here’s how to perform it:

1. Lie on your stomach with your elbows close to your sides and directly under your shoulders with palms and fingers facing down.
2. Engage your abdominal muscles.
3. Contract/tighten your thigh muscles, straighten your legs and flex your ankles.
4. Slowly lift your torso and legs off the floor. Keep your torso and legs straight. Do not allow your hips or low back to drop. Avoid raising your hips into the air or bending your knees. Make sure your shoulders are directly over your elbows and your palms are facing down.
5. Work up to holding this exercise for 90 seconds.

Make training your core a priority and you will reap the benefits!