What are core muscles, exactly?

For one, your core is so much more than just your “abs.”

Keep reading for a comprehensive breakdown of this crucial muscle group and how to build core strength.

Fit woman doing cross training workout using battle rope. Sportswoman exercising with battle rope on rooftop.

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Contrary to popular belief, your core isn’tjustyourabdominal muscles.

Plus, they reveal why core strength is essential in the first place.

That said, each core muscle has a primary function.

Anatomical diagram of four abdominal core muscles

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One side of the erector spinaealso works with the obliques and rectus abdominis to allow for lateral trunk flexion.

Within the core, the pelvic floor also helps provide stability to your spine, says Miranda.

(This guide breaks down the exact benefits ofdiaphragmatic breathing for exercise.)

Anatomical diagram of erector spinae muscle

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Toengage your pelvic floor, squeeze a small exercise ball between the knees, they suggest.

“The harder you push, the more tension is created in the core, in your transverse.”

And it’s particularly useful for activating the erector spinae and the rectus abdominis,researchshows.

Anatomical diagram of pelvic floor muscles

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Those few extra reps may be annoying, but trust, the rest of your workout will only improve.

Anatomical diagram of female diaphragm

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