The middle of our bodies, “the core” or “abs”,  is more important than our tops or bottoms!  Sure you want your top and bottom to be healthy and fit, but the middle is where the strength for your entire body lies.  People often complain of back pain.  Many times, back pain is due to having a weak middle. Strengthen your abs and your back will feel stronger. You will feel like a new you.  Denise Austin, a fitness guru idol of mine, quoted to Total Health, “What I really promote is good abdominal strength because it is the core of your whole body. If you can keep your abs strong, then most often the rest of your body stays fit.” It sounds simple, but it’s true.

A few years ago I took my first Pilates class.  A couple days after the class, I became aware muscles in my middle I never knew I had. My abs were screaming at me. Even though I was still in a little pain, when the class rolled around again the next week, I dragged myself back in. After a few weeks, the pain subsided and I started to feel great!  I like to run and this is where I really noticed the biggest difference. I felt much stronger and could go farther without getting as tired as I used to. I also had a friend in the class who was a singer. After improving her core, her singing became much better.

Strengthen you middle even when you aren’t working out!  While driving in the car, tighten your abs and pull them toward your back. Hold for 10 seconds and release. Do this at every stop light.  You will be surprised how much this little exercise will help.  Hold your abs in while standing, sitting and walking. This will add to your daily ab workout and strengthen your abs all the more.

There are plenty exercises you can do for your middle so you don’t get bored. Doing ab exercises on a yoga ball  builds your abs and helps protect your back. I love mine. I find I like to do different exercises so I don’t get bored and don’t develop muscle memory. It’s best to keep your muscles guessing.

Just remember, your middle ranks higher than your top or bottom. Treat it that way, don’t neglect it and keep it strong for a strong you as the years go on.