What is Core Stability?

Core stability is the training of the abdominal muscles to support the spine and is fundamental to the Pilates concept, Yoga, and current physiotherapy treatment of low back pain.

The abdominal muscles comprise the sit up muscle - rectus abdominus - at the front, and the 3 muscles that wrap around the sides, the internal and external obliques and the transversus abdominus. Recent research from Queensland, suggests that the deepest layer of these, the transversus abdominus, is one of the most important providers of support to the low back. The dynamic relationship between the control of the low back area by this stability muscle, and other muscles that move the limbs is a fundamental part of the core stability concept.

Core stability is important as it provides a protective muscular corset, reducing excessive movement of the easily damaged joints, discs and neural structures. It helps prevent low back pain caused by the placement of the spine into extreme positions.

Observers of fitness trends will have noticed the wider dissemination of the Core stability concept that underlies the fitness styles which have recently gained media attention, such as Pilates.