Think
fast: What’s your favorite type of exercise? If you’re like most people, cardio
is at the top of your list. But focusing too much on cardio while neglecting core-strengthening
exercises can result in weak core muscles and poor flexibility — and
that can increase your chances of getting hurt. Even those who do conventional
weight lifting may be vulnerable to injury, since this type of exercise tends
to isolate muscle groups and neglect those all-important core muscles.
In his new book, The South Beach Wake-Up Call,
Dr. Arthur Agatston emphasizes the importance of functional fitness —
core-strengthening exercises that mimic everyday activities, such as bending
and lifting — in addition to cardio conditioning. Here’s more on the
benefits of functional fitness:
It will strengthen
your core muscles.
Functional exercises require you to use several muscle groups in one fluid
movement. This will strengthen and develop the muscles in the back, abdomen,
pelvis, and hips, and promote stability and flexibility — all
essential for preventing injury and helping you maintain a healthy weight.
It will tone your
muscles and improve bone density.
Even if you're diligent about cardio workouts, you need core-strengthening
exercises to further improve muscle tone and bone density. Combining a cardio
routine with core training will not only make you stronger, it will also help
promote good posture and balance.
No expensive
equipment needed!
The best part? Incorporating core exercise into your exercise regimen doesn’t require
you to buy fancy, expensive equipment like balance boards and pulley-type
machines to see results. We recommend the following:
- A bench
or a chair without arms
- A mat or thick towel to
protect your back and knees during floor exercises
- Light hand weights
- An exercise step, also
called an aerobic step or a home-exercise workout step
For more on core exercises,
you can also refer to Dr. Agatston’s South Beach Supercharged Fitness Program
in his earlier book, The South
Beach Diet Supercharged.
See all South Beach Diet Tips