Let’s talk about why we care about core strength. The answer has nothing to do with abs like you’d see on a magazine cover, but rather to do with function and performance.

Your core is aptly named. It is the center from which force is generated and transferred, and it enables us to function as dexterous and capable creatures. We put a high priority in our training on “core to extremity” movements -- movements in which power is generated in the core and transmitted to the extremities (as in a deadlift or a lateral throw), or in which power is transferred from one extremity to another through the core (as in an overhead squat or a handstand) -- because these movements are functional and effective. And, unsurprisingly, these movements put a premium on core strength.

At its simplest, core strength enables you to move as a system. Imagine trying to perform and overhead squat if everything in between your hips and shoulders was as soft as a wet noodle. Strong legs or shoulders won’t mean a thing if the piece connecting them is weak or unstable. Are you familiar with the idea of the weakest chan in the link? Well, the core is the big link to which all other chain links centrally connect, and if it’s the weakest link, your system is going be be bleeding out force all over the place. Oh, and you can bet you’ll have issues staying injury-free if your core isn’t strong enough to handle the forces you throw at it.

There’s nothing wrong with nice toned abs, but let’s make sure we’re getting our core strong for what it’s meant to do!

- PS

1/24/18

• 6 min EMOM

• Max reps push press (135/95)

Then...

• For time:

• 500m row

• 5 rounds:

• 6 burpees

• 6 box jumps (24”/20”)

• 500m row