The term "core" refers to the muscles of your abdominals and those of your lower back. These muscles play a unique role since they provide stabilization for your entire body.

Training your “core muscles” typically results in multiple benefits in a relatively short amount of time. This is because a strong core improves your posture, decreases your chance of injury, increases your power and functionality, and gives you a great-looking lean midsection.

Another reason core training is rapidly gaining popularity? Sitting. Yep, sitting.

Think about your typical work day. If you are like most people, your day starts with a 30-60 minute drive to work, followed by 8 hours at your desk and then another 30-60 minute drive home. That's a lot of sitting. And it all adds up to one thing: a weak core.

Core training seeks to strengthen the muscles of your abdominal and lower back using coordinated movement. A strong focus is put on contracting your abdominal muscles by pulling your belly button in toward your spine throughout the exercises to ensure that your core muscles are engaged.

What Are The Risks Of A Weak Core?
Unfortunately many ailments stem from having weak core muscles. You may be personally acquainted with the most common ailment...lower back pain. Other problems include poor posture, being injury prone, having minimal strength and a bulging waistline.

What Are The benefits Of A Strong Core?
Alleviating persistent back pain is one of the most welcomed benefits of a strong core. An increase in strength and protection from injury are also nice, and who doesn't love to lose inches from their waist as a result of tightened muscle?

Everyday motions such as lifting, squatting, reaching, twisting and bending will become less challenging after strengthening your core. While you may not immediately see the value in this, remember that it is better to be safe than sorry - who really wants to throw out their back while taking out the trash? I sure don't...

Author's Bio: 

PERSONAL TRAINER/FACILITY OWNER - Certified Personal Trainer and Health Nutritionist with over 20 years of physical fitness experience. Facility owner/co-founder of Personal Best Fitness, a professional personal training and Pilates facility (www.pb-fitness.com).

HEATH ADVISOR, WELLNESS & LIFESTYLE CONSULTANT - Lecturer, advisor, motivational speaker and health consultant. Creator of interactive, web-based exercise and lifestyle video and audio programming.