INNER STRENGTH

Are those basic core moves becoming a little too easy? Christina Macdonald explains how to take your core training to the next level

ILLUSTRATIONS: BEN FOXAL

If you’ve been doing Pilates or basic core strength work for a while now, you may have found that it’s getting just a bit too easy. At first, those glute bridges or planks on the floor might have felt challenging; now you’re not even sure they’re doing anything. You might even be wondering whether working on your core is worthwhile – but the answer from experts is a resounding yes. The term ‘core strength’ can refer to a number of things, but includes: strength in the core – usually meaning the deep abdominal muscles; improved balance; and strength in the glutes (including the often-neglected smaller glute muscles).

A strong core is important for running to ensure you hold your body in a stable, upright position when you run. If your core muscles are weak and you slouch when you run as these muscles can’t support you, you may be at increased risk of injuries and you will be less efficient, which will make it harder to nail those personal bests. “The main cause of injury in most runners is poor biomechanics,” says physiotherapist Mark Buckingham from running training camp company Performance Team (performanceteam.co.uk). “You’ve got to enable your abdominals to hold that pelvis up and forward when you run.”