The terms “abs” and “core” are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different things!
What are the abs?
The “abs” consist of 4 muscles that make up the abdominal wall. The rectus abdominis is commonly known as the “6-pack” muscle. The internal and external oblique muscles lay next to the rectus abdominis. The transverse abdominis lies below all of the other ab muscles. There is a left and right of each of these (we have 2 of each!).
What do the abs do?
The abs help us bend forward and rotate our trunk. Getting out of bed in the morning, bending down to pick something up, and rotating our body to reach something in the back seat of our car are just a few of the instances we use our abs throughout the day.
What is the core?
The “core” is made up of the abs + the diaphragm, pelvic floor, many back muscles, and the glutes.
The core like a soda can —
- The top is the diaphragm.
- The walls are the abs, the back muscles, and glutes.
- The floor of the can is the pelvic floor.
What does the core do?
The core muscles work together to help create trunk stability in every direction. This stability is what allows us to maintain good posture and move our limbs where we want them to go. The core muscles are at work when we stand, walk, exercise, and even when we sit!
Try the Ab-alicious Program!
The at-home Ab-alicious Program will have you feeling all of the benefits of a stronger core without any of the guesswork. Try the first 10 Minute Ab Class with KaisaFit, and let us know what you think!