In order to prevent injury and maximize performance, exercises should be as functional as possible. Most people choose to train their core lying down with traditional crunches. These exercises are not functional as the do not simulate any fitness or sports specific moves. They are also done lying down and most sports moves are done in an upright position.
Squats and lunges are two of the most functional core builders because they simulate so many activities- from lifting, bending, pushing, throwing, punching and balance. Nearly all fitness and sports activities will benefit from them.
Like many exercises which work a weak link, squats and lunges target the weaker buttocks and thighs. They also help you maintain an upright posture by working your core muscles which are between your rib cage and your pelvis. Properly performed squats and lunges will automatically engage your deep abdominals and back muscles. This, in turn, is the key to maintaining stability of your lower back, hip, knee and ankle.
Take some time to review your core training program. Don't make the mistake of thinking the core refers only to the abs and they should be trained only on the ground. In fact, the opposite is true. The core is only truly trained in a functional manner while standing because that is how we perform our activities. Add a few sets of squats and lunges instead of all those crunches and your results will be dramatic.
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