At the center of your body lies a powerful group of muscles that is responsible for holding you upright, helping you move, and keeping you stable. When these muscles are strong and flexible, you have better posture and balance with less back pain. In Pilates, this group of muscles is often referred to as your “powerhouse;” it is also called your “core.”

Many times when people hear the term “core,” they think only of the “six-pack” abs at the middle front of their body, but the core is much more involved than that. Your core is made up of those Rectus (six-pack) muscles, but also; transverse abdominis, obliques, erector spinae, and your pelvic floor muscles. All of these muscles work together to support your spine and your internal organs. By strengthening these muscles you will create more stability and support for your body resulting in better balance, less injury, and less pain.

One of the main theories of Pilates is centering. Centering is the idea that a strong and stable center is the foundation for all movement. For this reason, Pilates is a top choice for building core strength. You can also find core engagement in Barre and Yoga though. Keeping good form as you work at the Barre or holding a pose in Yoga will build that strength as well. In all of these methods, engagement and thoughtful form is crucial to getting the most benefit.

Whether you find strength from Pilates, Barre, Yoga, or another method, remember that having a strong powerhouse sets you up with a more powerful foundation for movement of all kinds.