Engaging Core

karenosman25

Can someone provide an easy description of how to correctly engage core muscles while exercising? I have been trying the pilates/yoga way of inhaling then exhaling and drawing belly button to spine as opposed to sucking in, then engaging pelvic floor and hold form during the exercise I loose form easily. Thanks Karen

troytroy11

Try both drawing your core back towards your spine and flexing it outward gentle at first gradually building intensity as you get used to it.
Look into Kundalini Yoga and also Vinyasa methods of breathing for variety. There are many many different ways to do it. Be sure to find what works for you long term.

mbaker566

i think that what you are doing engages it and also just think about standing straight. i find when i tuck my pelvis my core is engaged

tcunbeliever

It sounds like you are engaging your core, but it takes time for the muscles to build, keep working on it and you will be able to hold form longer and longer as they strengthen.

rybo

React as if someone is going to punch you in the stomach

SonyaCele

also squeeze your glutes when you squeeze your core

MityMax96

karenosman25 wrote: »

Can someone provide an easy description of how to correctly engage core muscles while exercising? I have been trying the pilates/yoga way of inhaling then exhaling and drawing belly button to spine as opposed to sucking in, then engaging pelvic floor and hold form during the exercise I loose form easily. Thanks Karen

Do really heavy squats, over head press or deadlifts.....you will know then. You have to engage your core to perform those at a heavy weight

SonyaCele

MityMax96 wrote: »

karenosman25 wrote: »

Can someone provide an easy description of how to correctly engage core muscles while exercising? I have been trying the pilates/yoga way of inhaling then exhaling and drawing belly button to spine as opposed to sucking in, then engaging pelvic floor and hold form during the exercise I loose form easily. Thanks Karen

Do really heavy squats, over head press or deadlifts.....you will know then. You have to engage your core to perform those at a heavy weight

really, and if you dont know how to engage your core and fail any of these lifts, then what?

MityMax96

SonyaCele wrote: »

MityMax96 wrote: »

karenosman25 wrote: »

Can someone provide an easy description of how to correctly engage core muscles while exercising? I have been trying the pilates/yoga way of inhaling then exhaling and drawing belly button to spine as opposed to sucking in, then engaging pelvic floor and hold form during the exercise I loose form easily. Thanks Karen

Do really heavy squats, over head press or deadlifts.....you will know then. You have to engage your core to perform those at a heavy weight

really, and if you dont know how to engage your core and fail any of these lifts, then what?

LOL
I am not saying you jump right into doing 225+ lb squats obviously.
Get the mechanics down first then go heavier....

And even if you are new to the stuff, if you are doing proper technique, you can't help but engage your core....

middlehaitch

Here are 2 articles that may help you.
Belly dancing classes are also excellent for becoming core aware, and fun.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/ms-fit5.htm

http://sortyourpostureout.com/what-is-my-core-abdominal-bracing-vs-tva/

Cheers, h.