Ask Hina: Are you REALLY strong in your core?

Hey guys, it’s Hina from Rebalance!

If you’re someone who can run five miles and not break a sweat or plank for a minute with minimal effort, you MIGHT be strong in your core, but it could be only your outer core that’s strong.

There’s a whole other side of strength in your inner core. If this simple test is difficult, it might mean you’re deficient in your inner core.

I have a test for anyone who might be bragging about your core strength.
For the test:

1. 1. Get onto all fours with your hands underneath your shoulders and knees under your hips, hip width apart.
2. 2. Tuck your toes underneath you.
3. 3. Try and lift both knees 1-2 inches off the floor.

If your core is balanced, you should be able to maintain your form with minimal effort. This means, you’re not letting your back collapse or swaying side to side. You should be able to take five normal breaths, which means you can breathe into your lower ribs while holding your form.

If you can’t do this, it could mean you have an inner core deficiency.

A holistic integrative pelvic floor physical therapist can help you figure out the alignment issues that could be adding to this deficiency. If you happen to be in the Philadelphia area, give us a call 267-282-1301 and we can help you get strong in your inner core.