What is meant by TRUE CORE?
Or MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

When we hear the word "core", many of us think of our external core- the muscles of our torso which we can see and feel. These usually include the rectus abdominis (the "6 pack" we see in body builders), and the superficial muscles of the back, and buttocks. However, the body's true core lies deeper, beneath the surface, and consists of muscles we can't see and usually don't feel or sense. I liken it to the ocean. When we look at the ocean from above, all we are seeing is the most superficial layer. Under the surface of the water exists an entire world we don't normally see and would not know existed if we didn't go under the surface to explore. Our bodies are very much the same. So much exists below the surface, but we have to begin to search deeply if we are to find it.

Underneath our external muscles, lies our "true core". These are the muscles which stabilize and support our bodies from within. For example, the pelvic floor, transversus abdominis and deep back muscle called multifidus stabilize the pelvis, lumbar and spine. They ensure proper spinal alignment and support, for a stable base around which proper movement is possible. When these muscles are weak and not conditioned, the spine is unsupported and will fall prey to misalignment and damage.

It is very possible to have a strong external core and a weak internal core, and therefore an unsupported spine. Not only does this lead to imbalance, it can also contribute to an inflexible back.

The body is made up of an "internal unit" of muscles intended to support and stabilize the body from within, as well as an "external unit" of muscles intended to move the body, creating larger movements. However, as illustrated above, if the stabilizers are weak, the "movers" will begin to act as stabilizers. This leads to chronic tight muscles, fatigue, and postural imbalance and misalignment. This type of imbalance is the cause of may types of physical pain and discomfort.

In Pilates we restore the body's balance by isolating and training the "internal unit" or "core", first, and then begin training the "outer unit" to work in conjunction with the core so the body begins to move properly. In this way Pilates truly strengthens from the inside out, and changes the way we move.

This relearning is a process which takes time and patience. Patterns are not learned overnight, and cannot be unlearned in just a few sessions. Mastery is a lifetime process. However, many students notice amazing changes in their bodies in a short amount of time. This is because change begins as awareness begins- which happens immediately.