core

Why is the “core” important for horseback riding? The core is the center of gravity and your body relies on a strong core for proper posture and proper body functioning. The core is made up of your entire body except the upper and lower extremities. The core stabilizes the spine and pelvis while providing a solid foundation of movement for the rest of the body.

So, while your body bounces around in the saddle, your core is working extremely hard to maintain proper posture as well as hold your body upright.

I moved to California a little over a month ago and have picked up the hobby of surfing. Surfing requires an extreme amount of core strength, stability, and balance as well as upper and lower body strength. If you have never been surfing, I totally recommend it. It is a great way to get away from the stresses of the world and to enjoy nature at its best.

Of course, safety is a big issue, but if you take a lesson or play it safe you will be more than fine. I also recommend starting with a long board then upgrading to a shorter one once you get better.

Below is a total body workout that I have put together to strengthen the muscles and parts of the body necessary to concur the sport of surfing. I have incorporated several core movements as well as upper and lower body exercises.

Well, it’s definitely summer time and that means golf season is in full affect. Golf originated in Scotland in the 12th century and has been very popular ever since. I strongly believe that golf is a game of mental toughness, natural ability or skill, and a little bit of luck. I play once or twice a year so I am definitely no expert, but I have trained my share of golfers and have had great success with them.

Wow, it’s the middle of June already? Does time fly or what? Last week we discussed Olympic lifts/exercises and the importance of proper form and technique. By perfecting these lifts, your technique for easier lifts will be much better. This week we will be taking a trip down Core Stability Blvd.!

Wedding Season Week 7:

“If you think you can or think you can’t; you’re right!!”

Tip: Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and during your workout. Try to avoid sugary sports drinks or high sugar/carbohydrate fruit drinks. These drinks are only necessary when you are working out for extended amounts of time and your electrolytes are depleted, otherwise water is the only necessary fluid to put into your body. Try to intake 80 to 100 ounces a day if you exercise at a moderate to high intensity level.

What makes up the core? The core is your body’s center of gravity. I have discussed this topic before, but I would like to reiterate the importance of a strong and stable core. The core consists of your abdominal, back, and lower back regions. A strong and stable core is vital for good balance, proper posture, and injury prevention.

• A strong and stable core will help to stabilize the muscles involved with balance. These muscle regions consist of the hips, hip flexors, abdominals, and other leg muscles as well.

• Proper posture is important for so many reasons, especially the older you get. Back pain, neck pain, and several other forms of pain can result from poor posture over the years.

• Injury prevention is another amazing benefit of working the core. Obviously not all injuries can be prevented, but most can be or the severity of the injury can be lessened.