Considerable importance is attached to the core in the functional expression of movements, as it could be defined as the first ring of any kinetic chain. For this reason, a possible lack of its muscular trophism, as well as being responsible for a lower athletic performance , can involve various muscle-joint imbalances and predispose to the onset of injuries.
Many centuries ago, yoga had already identified the importance of the core and its functioning for health and quality of life. On the other hand, in the West these concepts were only understood at the turn of the twentieth century, thanks to the Pilates method.Today core development is an integral part of athletic-sports, fitness or physical training wellness, preventive and rehabilitation.
The main core muscles reside in the abdomen, waist, middle and lower back, and hips. We will go into more detail in the next section. Although they play a less central role, they can also be considered core: The minor muscles, on the other hand, include: Note: Not everyone agrees on the actual relevance of many of the muscles mentioned. It should in fact be specified that those most involved reside, as anticipated in the introduction, between the abdomen and the pelvis.
Continence function of the core
The core is essential in the continence function, that is the ability to manage the large intestine and bladder.
It is not for nothing that urinary stress incontinence, that is, the lack of bladder control due to pelvic floor dysfunction, can result from a weakness of the core muscles.
Importance of the core in pregnancy
The core muscles, in particular the transversus abdomen, are necessary during labor and delivery, because they are responsible for active support in expelling the baby.
Core and Valsalva maneuver
The core muscles are responsible for the Valsalva maneuver, which is the function by which the chest is reduced in volume by holding the breath, thus creating a higher internal pressure - both air and blood. Valsalva is often involuntary during expressions of physical strength - in which it is considered a negative factor - during labor and delivery.
Note: the Valsalva maneuver, in weightlifting, is considered a predisposing factor for the formation of venous and capillary varices.
