“], “filter”: { “nextExceptions”: “img, blockquote, div”, “nextContainsExceptions”: “img, blockquote”} }”>
Get access to everything we publish when you
>”,”name”:”in-content-cta”,”type”:”link”}}”>sign up for Outside+.
The core is the literal center of your body, a key transition zone between your upper and lower limbs. When it is strong, it makes all of your movements more efficient – including those of swim, bike run. As such, it’s important for endurance athletes to train their core muscles, whether in the gym or in the yoga studio. But are you measuring your core strength the right way?
The burning sensation of building core strength can be incredibly satisfying, whether you’re holding Plank Pose or struggling to finish your last set of crunches. That burn might bring you a sense of accomplishment, but it shouldn’t be your only measure of core strength. Additionally, true core strength is not defined by tight, toned muscles, and a flat belly.
The following misconceptions about core strength may be preventing you from fully developing your midsection. By learning how core strength is actually cultivated, you can develop…