Core muscle strength

Core muscle strength is an important element in a lot of dancing moves. But also just for normal daily activities.

Tracey le Roux, who has a background in peadiatric occupational therapy, says that without a stable core, children may find it difficult to sit still at a desk and to carry out fine motor tasks.

The core muscles are made up of different muscles in the back, abdomen, shoulders and hips. These all work together to support the spine.

Activities to Strengthen your core muscles

Curles. Lay on your back with knees bent up. Place a beanbag between your knees and place your hands flat against your thighs. Gradually sit up, sliding your hands towards your knees. Hold yourself up, then lower back down.
Crab walk. Put a beanbag on your tummy to help you keep your bottom up high.
Leg balances. Hold on to a chair while you lift your leg at a 90 degree angle in front of you – like marching. Let go of the chair and balance.
Bridging. Lay on your back with knees bent up. Lift your bottom off the ground and hold.
Superman. Lay on your stomach with your arms outstretched. Lift your arms up (and upper chest) as if flying. Try lifting your legs as well.
At Studio Arc, we prefer to perform planking by supporting our weight on our elbows.

Plank. Lay on your stomach with your hands flat on the floor at shoulder level. Push up on your hands and straighten your arms. Hold this position then lower.