I think that the importance of core strength in the sport of triathlon is far too often overlooked. We spend countless hours per week slogging it out in the pool, on the bike or out on the paths for all 3 disciplines and leave it at that.

But what about our body's core, that groups of muscles that tie our trunks and legs together that include your abs and your lower back.

I think that this is a magnificent quote that spells out the importance:

"Riding with an undeveloped torso is similar to riding a bike with a cracked frame, the power will dissipate elsewhere." - Kathy Zawadzki, CTS Certified Coach
If that simple explanation doesn't drive home how important our core muscles are to power in the sport of triathlon, then .........

The power and energy that we generate is transferred through our core, a core that is not strong but weak will result in less of that power transfer. Increase your core strength, increases your ability to transfer power.

Benefits include:
  1. More streamlined body in the water hence more efficient swimming
  2. Better power transfer to the pedals on the bike
  3. Hold a better more aerodynamic position on the bike due to strengthened lower back
  4. More drive during the run
  5. Overall stability
So, don't discard the core like that of the apple, spend time working on your core and reap the rewards. Instead of lying on the couch watching the idiot box, get on the floor and get that core working.

Here are some links to exercises to develop the core.

Core Exercise Training DVD: The Champion's Workout

Slide Show: Core Exercises


Time for forty winks!

Komo