The body's core includes the muscles of the shoulders, the chest, the abdomen, the hips, the pelvis, and the upper to lower back muscles. A strong core helps your extremities do a better job while exercising, while playing sports, or while doing everyday household chores. If you are an athlete, a stable base is particularly important so you can react to the changing demands of your sport. For example, a strong core allows a runner to keep his or her form on rough terrain and steep inclines. Without a strong core, the runner loses their stride, costing them seconds off their time and possible injury. Also, a strong core helps an athlete accelerate, decelerate, and stabilize the body during competition. Core strength increases the amount of force your body produces, improves balance and body awareness, and decreases the chances of overall injury.
