7 Warning Signs You Have Weak Core Muscles

This one can be super sneaky because you can do it subconsciously. 

Here’s a test to try right now:  sit down in a chair, wait a few seconds, and then stand up.  Did you automatically reach out to grab a table, desk, or even put your hands on your thighs to push you up?

Here’s another test to do first thing tomorrow morning:  when you are still lying in bed, pay attention to how you get up.  Do you use your hands to push you into a sitting position to get up?

Both are signs your core could use some strengthening! 

This is another one of those subconscious signs.

The more (and longer) you sit, the more you’re apt to slouch.  It only makes sense because over time your muscles get tired of holding you up!

But this can make it harder for your lungs to expand when you breathe … it can make pretty much all of the muscles in the front of your body become tight and inflexible … and can make you feel fatigued and even depressed!

And eventually, it can even lead to weakness.

Your core muscles help keep you stable, especially if you have to make any sudden moves, stand on one foot, or do anything that involves rotating or twisting.

Try standing on one foot for 15-30 and then repeat on the other side.

If you find yourself wobbling, try this:  think about “zipping up” through your core muscles while you stand on one foot.  Did it help?  (Make sure you breathe!  More on that below.)

When you move with force, your core fires up to keep you stable – especially during unilateral (one-sided) motions.

Not being able to generate much force is a sign your core is weak.

Having a hard time getting into a proper plank position is a BIG sign your core is lacking strength!

A plank requires that your entire body is in proper alignment.  That means you’re in a straight line from the top of your head to your heels.

Your shoulders, back, and butt should all be neutral (not hunched, lifted, or sagging), your neck should be long and strong, and your legs engaged.  If you’re having difficulty, it means you might have some imbalances in those muscles.

NOTE: Holding a plank in improper form can actually reinforce any weaknesses/imbalances you have, so finding that “perfect” form is VERY IMPORTANT.

This matters because of a muscle deep inside your body – your diaphragm!  Not only does your diaphragm play a key role in your breathing, but it also works with your deep core muscles.

If you can’t breathe and hold a plank (or do other core exercises) at the same time, chances are it’s because your core muscles are weak.

This is just one reason why coaches always cue you to breathe.  :-)

When your core is weak, your body can recruit other muscles to do the exercises!

If you notice that happening to you, focus on:

1) engaging your core,

2) moving more intentionally,

3) breathing, and

4) modifying the movement by going more slowly or shortening your range of motion until your core is stronger.