Strength

What percentage of workout days should include core work?

Core Work: A Must for Every Workout

What percentage of workout days should include core work? Well, you use your core during every single exercise that you do when you're working out. Whether you're sitting on a physio ball like I am right now, I am working my core stability. Whether you're doing a chest press, you're working core stability. So that core gets worked every single time during every single exercise that you do, including cardio. Now, do you feel the burn as much as you do as if you were holding a plank? Probably not, but your core is constantly firing and being worked. So if you're asking for specific exercises, whether it's to get like a V taper, to work your rectus abdominal, your obliques, that's a little different. I don't believe in your traditional crunches at all because it puts too much pressure on the spinal cord. And I don't believe in doing a lot of rotational work either because that again puts a lot of wear and tear on your spine. What I do recommend is doing anti-rotational exercises such as planks, side planks, anything that fires that core, holding isometric holds of a band out in front of you to really fire that core because our spine already gets enough work as it is. But try those exercises out and let me know how you like them.

Core work should be included in every workout, but specific exercises such as planks and side planks are recommended to ensure that the spine is not overworked.

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When it comes to including core work in your workout routine, it's important to note that your core is engaged during every exercise you do. Whether you're using a physio ball or performing a chest press, your core stability is being challenged. Even during cardio exercises, your core is constantly firing and being worked, although you may not feel the burn as much as with specific core exercises like planks. It's worth mentioning that traditional crunches and excessive rotational work can put strain on your spine. Instead, I recommend incorporating anti-rotational exercises such as planks and side planks. Isometric holds with a band can also effectively engage the core muscles. Since our spine already undergoes plenty of stress, these exercises provide a safer alternative. Give them a try and let me know your thoughts!

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Monica LaMar answers your Strength questions. See all the advice Monica LaMar has and get answers to your own Strength questions.

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Monica LaMar is a dedicated Fitness Coach and Personal Trainer with 10+ years of experience. She currently serves as a full-time Fitness Coach and Personal Trainer at BeWell Fitness in Libertyville, IL. Prior to joining BeWell, Monica worked as a Recreation Fitness Specialist at Naval Station Great Lakes. Monica is committed to helping clients achieve their health and wellness goals through tailored exercise programs and personalized training sessions.