CoreTraining

CoreTraining is a fitness approach focused on strengthening the muscles of the trunk and pelvis—the core—to improve stability, posture, balance, and athletic performance. It is used in general fitness, rehabilitation, and sport.

CoreTraining emphasizes training the deep stabilizing muscles and the outer core muscles together, with an emphasis on proprioceptive control and functional movement. It differentiates between core stability (control of trunk position) and core strength (force production). Programs typically include progressive overload, tempo, and technique.

Common exercises include planks and side planks, pallof presses, dead bugs, bird-dogs, bridges, cable rotations, kettlebell swings, and anti-rotation drills. Equipment may include stability balls, resistance bands, medicine balls, and free weights. Training modalities include circuit work, supersets, and integration with whole-body movements.

CoreTraining is used for injury prevention and rehabilitation, especially for lower back pain and spinal health, but must be integrated with overall strength training and sport-specific skills. Individualization is important: training should consider current fitness, posture, and any pathology.

The concept gained prominence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as researchers highlighted trunk muscle function in movement control, though opinions vary on the specific best practices. Modern programs stress safe technique and progression.