Core strengthening has numerous benefits for an athlete’s fitness level and sports performance. The core muscles are the foundation of movement for the entire body, comprised of the abdominals, back muscles, diaphragm, hip muscles, and pelvic floor muscles. A physical therapist can assess an athlete’s core strength and design a core strengthening exercise program to enhance the strength, control, and endurance of their core muscles. Mangiarelli Rehabilitation physical therapy assistant Patti demonstrates several advanced core strengthening exercises on the blog.

The rate of c-section deliveries is steadily increasing, comprising over 30% of births in the United States in the last year. A c-section is a major surgery involving a horizontal incision just above the pubic bone that can negatively impact core muscle function and strength. Following a c-section, it’s critical to gradually retrain and strengthen the core under the guidance of a physical therapist. In the video below, Mangiarelli Rehabilitation physical therapy assistant Patti explains how to safely strengthen your core after a c-section delivery.

Mangiarelli Rehabilitation physical therapist and pregnant mom, Sarah, demonstrates 5 safe core strengthening exercises you can perform safely during pregnancy. Building a strong core during pregnancy can help you manage the demands of pregnancy on the body and minimize diastasis recti and other pregnancy symptoms. Strengthening your core during pregnancy not only helps support your pelvic organs as your baby grows and alleviates pressure on the back but can also help with the physical demands of labor.

Strengthening your core muscles has numerous benefits, allowing you to walk upright, maintain good posture, control your movement, and engage in daily work and sports activities. The core muscles are the foundation of movement for your entire body, stabilizing the spine, pelvis, and shoulder. A physical therapist can help you properly strengthen core muscles based upon the functional stability you need for various activities. Mangiarelli Rehabilitation physical therapy assistant, Patti Ciferno, demonstrates beginner core strengthening exercises you can do at home.