Does Core Strength Training Really Improve Performance?
Based on the frequency with which Core Strength Training (CST) is used by Trainers, Instructors, and Therapists it might be assumed that research has identified a strong link with performance improvement. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Although research confirms improvement in trunk muscle strength and improved joint stability with Core training programs the translation to performance is shaky. To shed light on this relationship, researchers at Barry University in Miami, FL studied the effects of a CST program on a variety of running variables. Twenty runners, both competitive and recreational completed the 6-week study. The researchers measured ground reaction forces (GRF), lower-body stability, and 5K running performance outdoors. The CST group performed 5 exercises four times weekly for 2 sets of 10-15 repetitions each. The exercises included: Swiss Ball Ab Crunch, Swiss Ball Back Extension, Prone Alternating Superman, Swiss Ball Bridge, Russian Twist over Swiss Ball. Followin
