Primal Primer 8 (Fitness)
Maintaining strong core strength is essential for overall fitness, rooted deeply in our evolutionary history. Our ancestors relied on robust trunk musculature to navigate the three-dimensional challenges of their environment. A well-conditioned core comprises the strength and stability of the abdomen, lower back, and hips, working together to support complex movements.
Throughout the Paleolithic era and into the Neolithic era, early humans engaged in various physical activities—running, walking, climbing, carrying, and using tools for farming, hunting, and warfare. These activities required dynamic movements like bending, twisting, and extending, which were integral to their daily lives, rather than mere breaks from sedentary routines.
Why Train Your Core?
Training your core is crucial for creating the demands and adaptations necessary for modern fitness. A strong trunk acts as the foundation for generating power, enhancing athleticism, and ensuring safe movement. By developing your core, you create proximal stability that allows for distal mobility—just like you can’t shoot a cannon from a canoe! An activated core also serves as the body’s armor, protecting you from injuries and promoting good posture, especially in times of stress or perceived danger.
~Cave Implementation~
Incorporate trunk workouts into every fitness routine. Aim to include at least 1-2 core-specific exercises alongside your regular workouts. Using trunk-focused exercises as part of your warm-up can effectively prime your body for training by activating key muscle groups. Additionally, on active recovery days, dedicate time to core training; it’s low impact, targets slow-twitch muscle fibers, and maintains a low VO2 demand.
Remember, your trunk is your body’s center of gravity. Prioritizing core strength is vital for optimal movement and overall fitness.
