Why Core Strength is Important for Runners

Why core strength is important for runners to stay healthy and injury-free. Plus, a short but effective bodyweight core workout to add to your daily routine!

As part of a paid partnership with the AeroTrainer® exercise platform, I’ve pulled together some thoughts on how a core workout can benefit my fellow runners this fall. I know a thing or two when it comes to being injured and unable to run (hello, three years off running due to chronic injury!). But luckily, due to some lifestyle and routine changes, I can say I am coming up on almost two years of being injury-free! *knock on ALL the wood*

A big thing I attribute this to is strength training. Getting stronger overall has radically changed me as a person and helped me run stronger, healthier, and faster than ever before. Core strengthening is a key aspect of my overall strength routine as well!

Why Core Strength is Important for Runners in the Fall

For runners, core strength is especially important.

Your core is the powerhouse of your body. It connects your trunk, pelvis, and spine to each other and the rest of your body, including your hips, legs, and shoulder blades. Essentially, it’s the stabilizer for your entire body. And since running is a full-body exercise, you can see why having a strong core is key!

The main role of your inner core muscles is to stabilize your spine and provide support while you’re running. They transfer force through your body to prevent back, hip, knee, and neck pain. The core muscles also work in unison to allow you to breathe properly as well.

A weak inner core puts you at risk for injuries and slows you down. Studies have shown that almost every common running injury can be linked to a weak inner core. Why is this? It’s because a lack of stability in your torso puts increased strain on other parts of your body (like your lower back, hips, and knees), eventually causing them to break down with repeated use.

Why I Love the AeroTrainer Exercise Platform

Working on core strength doesn’t have to be a chore during the fall months…it can be fun!! I often incorporate headstand practice into my core strengthening routine or use fun equipment like my AeroTrainer.

The AeroTrainer is the latest addition to my home gym, and it’s one of my favorite tools for all fitness. The AeroTrainer is an ergonomically contoured, 2-sided, inflatable fitness platform. Designed for all fitness levels to reduce stress, improve flexibility and build core strength. Think of a stability ball…but with a lot more functionality and ways to use it!

The AeroTrainer uses air mattress technology to create the ultimate therapeutic and exercise platform. It’s super lightweight and less expensive than most full-body fitness equipment for your home. It’s also very easy to inflate and deflate as needed if space is a concern in your home.

The reason I love the AeroTrainer is that it allows me to easily train my whole body with simple bodyweight movements and no equipment. The design of the AeroTrainer makes it excellent for performing exercises that strengthen your core and back.

Being a personal trainer myself, I know the incredible preventative and longevity-promoting benefits that exercise has. So even incorporating short 5-10 minute bursts of exercise into your day can make a huge impact. In addition to strengthening your body, regular exercise helps with increased energy, a healthier immune system, reduced inflammation, and improved overall well-being.
The versatility of the AeroTrainer is especially helpful for core workouts because of its ability to make certain exercises easier or harder depending on your experience/fitness level.

Here’s a quick core workout I’ve been LOVING lately…