Constantly engaging your core muscles is unrealistic and can lead to confusion in movement. Many individuals, like the author, are influenced by vague sayings that suggest they should always tighten their core. A physical therapist, Andy Fata-Chan, identifies several misconceptions about how to engage and strengthen the core. He emphasizes that optimal core usage should feel natural rather than forced. Practicing core engagement correctly can lead to better physical alignment and reduce unnecessary strain during everyday activities and exercises.
Not only is it unrealistic to constantly engage your abs, it can actually be taxing on your body, says Fata-Chan.
The assumption that I should be squeezing my abs at all times to strengthen my core was creating confusion around even the simplest of movements.
The body is a lot smarter than we give it credit for, explains Fata-Chan. And optimally using the core doesn't need to feel robotic or forced.
It should feel natural—and chances are you're probably already practicing that in your everyday life.
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