When we refer to "the Core", we are referring to the muscles that are involved in holding the torso in position. In other words, the abdominal muscles and other muscles involved in positioning the spine and pelvis. These muscles play an important role in coordinating movement.
When an athlete is deficient in core strength, we often notice:
- limitations in range of motion when approaching full speed
- difficulty in maintaining balance when changing direction
- inability to maintain an erect posture when in motion
In soccer players, core strength not only impacts the ability to move fast and change direction quickly, but is vital to the ability to win tackles.
These muscles also play a critical role in injury prevention. Strength in the hips and lower back will prevent many injuries to leg muscles.
