Did you know that 50% of all sports related injuries are a direct result of inadequate core strength? Think about it! Where are all your vital organs housed - major muscle groups, spine, bones, you name it - that's right, in the center of your body, the core. It makes sense that this is where your "real strength" is gonna come from.
Bodyweight exercises are one of the most effective ways to build a strong core. One that will improve your balance and stability for sports, give you more power in your workouts and increase your resistance to injury. In addition, you will benefit from better posture, and look and feel good, as your body alignment improves.
If you want an example check out the photos on the covers of the Fitness magazines in your local shop. You need go no further, pop-out abs and excellent posture go hand in hand.
It has also been proven that individuals with a strong core have a much lower susceptibility to all forms of illness and disease. So stoke up the fire in the boiler house of your body with the following exercises, and begin to develop true core strength with bodyweight exercises -
EXERCISE 1 - The Stomach Pump (Deep Breathing). This exercise works best when performed daily, preferably in the mornings on an empty stomach. For best results, do it as soon as you get up.
Stand in front of a mirror. Make sure you are erect and your posture is good, head up, shoulders back and tummy in. Start by exhaling and shaking your body out releasing any tension.
Now resume position, and bring your arms up straight pointing forward, until they are level with your shoulders. Breathe in deeply through your nose (mouth closed) as you suck your belly button towards your spine, and close your fists as you draw your them to side. Hold for one count.
Then breathe out deeply, again through the nose, at the same time holding the lock on your abdominals, drawing them toward your spine and pressing down with open hands. Hold for one count.
Repeat for ten repetitions. This exercise will give your body a tremendous boost, both stimulating circulation and increasing flow in your lymph system ie your digestion, thereby helping to eliminate toxins and make you feel good! Do this any time of the day and benefit from an instant boost to energy levels.
If you want a strong and lean body, then go to http://www.truecorestrength.com and sign up for Stevey's FREE Fitness Tips.
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