7 Signs of a Weak Core

Your core muscles are some of the most important in your body. They support your spine and your internal organs, and they power almost every movement you make.

The problem is, our lifestyles work against having a strong core – and over time your muscles can get weaker without you even realizing it! This can set you up for poor posture, injuries, aches & pains, and more!

Have you noticed any of these!?

Top Warning Signs You Have a Weak Core

1. You have to use your arms to help you get out of bed or out of a chair. This one can be super sneaky because you can do it subconsciously.

Here’s a test to try right now: sit down in a chair, wait a few seconds, and then stand up. Did you automatically reach out to grab a table, desk, or even put your hands on your thighs to push you up?

Here’s another test to do first thing tomorrow morning: when you are still lying in bed, pay attention to how you get up. Do you use your hands to push you into a sitting position to get up?

Both are signs your core could use some strengthening!

2. You notice you’re slouching when you’re driving or at your desk. This is another one of those subconscious signs.

The more (and longer) you sit, the more you’re apt to slouch. It only makes sense because over time your muscles get tired of holding you up!

But this can make it harder for your lungs to expand when you breathe … it can make pretty much all of the muscles in the front of your body become tight and inflexible … and can make you feel fatigued and even depressed!

And eventually, it can even lead to weakness.

You can read more about the importance of posture here.

3. Your balance is off. Your core muscles help keep you stable, especially if you have to make any sudden moves, stand on one foot, or do anything that involves rotating or twisting.

Try standing on one foot for 15-30 and then repeat on the other side.

If you find yourself wobbling, try this: think about “zipping up” through your core muscles while you stand on one foot. Did it help? (Make sure you breathe! More on that below.)

4. You feel weak or off-balance when you do certain movements like a throw or kick.

When you move with force, your core fires up to keep you stable – especially during unilateral (one-sided) motions.

Not being able to generate much force is a sign your core is weak.

5. Your plank form is off. Having a hard time getting into a proper plank position is a BIG sign your core is lacking strength!

A plank requires that your entire body is in proper alignment. That means you’re in a straight line from the top of your head to your heels.

Your shoulders, back, and butt should all be neutral (not hunched, lifted, or sagging), your neck should be long and strong, and your legs engaged. If you’re having difficulty, it means you might have some imbalances in those muscles.

NOTE: Holding a plank in improper form can actually reinforce any weaknesses/imbalances you have, so finding that “perfect” form is VERY IMPORTANT.

6. You hold your breath when you do planks and other core exercises.

This matters because of a muscle deep inside your body – your diaphragm! Not only does your diaphragm play a key role in your breathing, but it also works with your deep core muscles.

If you can’t breathe and hold a plank (or do other core exercises) at the same time, chances are it’s because your core muscles are weak.

This is just one reason why coaches always cue you to breathe. 🙂

7. Your hip flexors/legs get tired when you are doing ab & core exercises like bicycles or bird dogs.

When your core is weak, your body can recruit other muscles to do the exercises!

If you notice you’re having these symptoms, here are some starting recommendations:

1) Learn how to properly activate and engage your core

2) Moving with intention and mindfulness

3) Practice diaphragmatic breathing

4) Modify any exercise by going more slowly or shortening your range of motion until your core is stronger.

Paying attention to all of these warning signs can help you build a strong core that supports your body for a healthy, active, and fit life!

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3806175/