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For cyclists, when their core muscles tire, the mechanics of the rider become less efficient.

Overall, the results suggest that direct, endurance-style core training has a limited effect on athletic performance, with its largest effect being injury prevention. Instead, you can improve core strength and stability throughmulti-joint weightlifting exercises such as Olympic lifts, squats, and deadlifts. Injury Prevention Developing a strong core can also prevent injury, as your entire body is connected along a kinetic chain. Studies show that poor core strength correlates with upper and lower extremity injuries. By asking our shoulders, hips, and neckmuscles to dowork they’re not built for, they can get strained. Research also shows that core stability exercises manage lower back pain. As you’ll remember, the first job of coremusculature is spinal stabilization. Aweak core forces your lower back to take on loads, resulting in chronic lowback pain. By developing core strength instead, you keep your spine in a safe position throughmovement.

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Core Training: What it is andWhy it Helps