19 Everyday Movements That Quietly Strengthen Core Muscles

7. Bending: The Flexibility Factor

Bending is an integral activity in daily life, whether it's picking up an item from the floor or tying your shoes. This movement engages the core muscles, particularly the lower back and abdominals, to maintain stability and control. Proper bending technique involves hinging at the hips rather than the waist, which activates the glutes and core muscles. By practicing mindful bending, you can enhance flexibility and reduce the risk of back strain. Incorporating stretches and yoga poses that mimic bending movements can help gain even better core strength and flexibility.

8. Reaching: Extending Core Potential

Reaching for objects, whether on a high shelf or across a table, requires the engagement of the core to maintain balance and control. This movement activates the transverse abdominis and obliques, as well as the muscles of the lower back. By consciously engaging the core during reaching tasks, you can transform this simple action into a core-strengthening exercise. Practicing reaching movements with added resistance, such as holding a weight, can further enhance core strength and endurance. This everyday activity, when performed with intention, can significantly contribute to core stability that you would be able to enjoy for a long time to come.