Developing core strength and focusing on functional strength for your sport(s) can help athletes of all levels overcome muscle weakness and imbalances to gain power and efficiency.  

Lots of us avoid adding this piece to our programs because we think it will take up way too much time or we don't know how. Lucky for us, a little really can go a long way. (And with some professional guidance - we just need to follow along!)

Thanks to everyone who joined the CORE sessions this week! With all the time you put into pushing yourself on the bike, in the pool and on the track, your body will appreciate the attention to its powerhouse -- your CORE!   Strong back, oblique and abdomen muscles are essential to everything we do as athletes. Pay attention to practicing with mindfulness. We will work diligently at practicing with focus on quality and proper form.  Progress will happen with consistency and patience. Over the course of the next couple of months - with races and training in high gear, taking the time to develop the habit of engaging and working core strength will build an important base for major improvements through the seasons. 

HOMEWORK: Balance is key. 10 secs with our eyes closed!?!  We can beat that!!! Core, stability and balance are all connected. Work it. Stand on one leg while you brush your teeth, do the dishes or talk on the phone. Might not want to do dished with your eyes closed, but heck, it could be more fun!

MORE FROM WEEK 2: Did you know you can strengthen your core anytime! How convenient! Pull that navel tight as you sit at your desk, drive to work, water the plants. Do it now!