Overview of Functions: Core Form & Function

Olga Kabel of SequenceWiz summarizes the function of the core muscles in Four Main Functions of Your Core Muscles:

1. Contains and protects the internal organs.
2. Ensures greater mobility of the spine and trunk.
3. Stabilizes the top part of the body over the bottom part.
4. Controls the pelvic-lumbar relationship.

When you’re focused on the outer physical functions, you may wish to highlight these functions as described in quote below.

1. Stabilizes body position.
2. Transfers force during movement.

Control Body Position & Transfer Force During Movements

Your core muscles help control your posture and body position. For instance, the rectus abdominis works primarily to stabilize your rib cage in relation to your pelvis. The transversus abdominis and multifidus work with the pelvic floor and diaphragm to stabilize your lumbar spine. Your core muscles also produce and transfer force during dynamic movements such as vinyasa yoga or running, maintaining spinal stability in order to protect your nerves, disks, joints, and connective tissue. – Mary Richards

Contracting The Core To Create Stability

The abs have very limited and specific action, and what experts refer to as the “core” actually consists of many different muscles that stabilize the spine and pelvis, and run the entire length of the torso. When these muscles contract, they stabilize the spine, pelvis and shoulder girdle and create a solid base of support. When this happens, we are able to generate powerful movements of the extremities. – About.com