Total Swimming
May 2, 20201 min
Core strength is the development of the torso muscles that stabilize, align, and move the trunk of the body. Poor core strength can cause poor posture which can also affect gross motor and fine motor skills. Building strong core strength is like building a strong foundation for your child.
The easiest way to develop core strength is through good old fashioned outdoor play! Children need daily opportunities to run, jump, climb, crawl and explore in an unstructured environment. This enables them to develop good physical literacy.
Children with poor core strength will tend to slump with shoulders rolled forward while seated, they have poor endurance, and they may exhibit poor balance.
There are ways to help your child exercise and strengthen their core muscles. Participating in regular physical or sporting activities will go a long way in helping them.
Listed below are a few exercises/activities for core strength development:
The Wheelbarrow
Bouncing – Such as Hops or a Trampoline
Exercise ball
Swivel ride on toys (with no pedals)
Swinging – without anyone pushing
Superman Pose – lying on the stomach and lifting arms and legs
Sit-ups
Lounge & Twist
Twister – the game
Crawling through a tunnel
Climbing a ladder – such as for a slide
Riding a bike
Skating
Swimming