© Getty ImagesPut simply, good core stability is one of the most effective ways to prevent injuries and improve running efficiency. The groups of muscles that make up your core section provide essential support so strengthening your core should form
," explains marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe. You simply can't run your best without a strong core: the muscles in your abdominals, lower back and glutes. They provide the stability, power and endurance that runners need for powering up hills
you maintain proper form and run efficiently, even through fatigue. With strong lower abs and lower-back muscles, such as the erector spinae, it's easier to stay upright. If your core is weak, you may end up shuffling, slouching and putting too much
to work simultaneously to perform a single move. "The bands work on synchronising the lower and upper body, which helps provide core stability, balance and muscular power – all things that can improve a runner's performance," says Sheehan.Getting Started
you do just that. This workout is designed to:Mobilise the thoracic spine (upper back), which is key for swimming and running.Fire up the core through the active plank position to replicate the bodies position during the swim.Fire up the glutes - often
and stability of your entire lower limb, from the pelvis/hip down and the foot up. Try to work out what does move enough and what – and get it to move (most commonly your thoracic spine) . Generally bits that don’t move very well, you won’t feel – as they don
pregnant woman must keep her core body temperature at a recognised safe level (below 101°F) to protect her unborn baby from potential birth defects, particularly to the foetuss central nervous system.What can an expectant mother do to stay cool