Core Training
Why Crunches Aren’t the Best Way to Train Your Core
When most people say they want to “work their abs,” what they really want is visible abs. The truth is, seeing abs comes from nutrition and lowering body fat, not endless crunches.
Core training is still extremely important, just not in the way most people think.
Your Core Is More Than Your Abs
Your core is not just your six-pack. It includes:
Your abs
Your glutes
Your hips
Your torso and spine
The core’s main job is to stabilize your body and protect your spine while you move. This applies to lifting weights, bending down, and everyday life.
Why Crunches Miss the Point
Crunches and sit-ups repeatedly bend the spine. Research shows that too much spinal flexion can:
Increase low back pain
Aggravate disc issues
Lead to injuries over time
That is why many people feel worse, not better, after doing a lot of sit-ups.
How We Train the Core at Rise
Instead of endless crunches, we focus on core stability and control.
We use exercises like:
Planks
Dead bugs
Bird dogs
One-sided and offset loaded movements
These teach your core to stay stable while your arms and legs move, which is how your body works in real life.
Core Training Without Even Realizing It
Most strength exercises already train the core:
Squats
Lunges
Carries
One-arm and one-leg movements
By challenging balance and resisting rotation, your core gets stronger without stressing your spine.
The Real Benefits of Proper Core Training
When you train the core the right way:
Back pain often improves
Lifts feel stronger and safer
Movement becomes easier
Abs still get stronger, just smarter
If you want visible abs, start in the kitchen.
If you want a stronger, healthier body, train your core the right way.
That’s how we do it at Rise.