There is no doubt the most attractive muscles within the core are the abdominals. When most people think of the abdominals, especially the rectus abdominis, that sexy, well defined athletic appearance is what springs to mind first. But did you know that these muscles play many important roles within the core region, including helping to maintain good posture?

Before we dig deeper into this subject let's define what 'having a good posture' means.  Posture is the position in which you hold your body when moving or static. It is having the awareness to position the body in a place that puts the least amount of strain on the supporting muscles.

Good posture plays a vital role in the health of the spinal region. It helps to keep the bones and joints in correct alignment, decreases stress placed on the ligaments that hold joints of the spine together, and prevents muscle fatigue. Whereas, poor posture can cause back, neck, and shoulder pain. Giving us sleep issues, headaches, and in some cases, the curvature of the spine.

It is a common mistake to think that the main muscle groups located within the posterior chain are solely responsible for correct posture. The hamstrings, glutes, and erector spinae play an important role but we need to remember that the anterior muscles are just as important.

The main role of the rectus abdominis is flexion of the trunk, that alone makes it an important postural muscle. A strong abdominal wall will still stabilize your body and ensure the body remains upright and balanced.  When your abdominal muscles are weak, your spine does not have adequate anterior support to maintain good posture naturally and other muscles begin to compensate to help you to remain upright.

Those who have followed Sub30 Fitness and delivered our Sub30 Core™ workouts will know that the number one reason for targeting all the muscle groups in the core is to ensure that they all work together in harmony. Allowing our bodies to maintain a good posture or work towards achieving a better posture.