The Core Strength Lie: Why Crunches Aren’t the Answer
For decades, we’ve been told that crunches and sit-ups are the gold standard for core strength. But what if we told you that these traditional exercises might be doing more harm than good—especially if you struggle with back pain or poor posture?
The truth is, a strong core isn’t about six-pack abs—it’s about functional stability that protects your spine and enhances movement. Let’s debunk the myths and explore smarter ways to build real core strength.
Why Crunches Fail Your Core
- They Overwork Superficial Muscles
- Crunches primarily target the rectus abdominis (the “six-pack” muscle), but neglect deeper stabilizers like the transverse abdominis and pelvic floor.
- This creates an imbalance: your outer muscles may look toned, but your inner support system remains weak.
- They Don’t Mimic Real-Life Movement
- When was the last time you needed to curl your torso off the ground in daily life?
- Your core’s real job is to resist movement (like bracing to lift groceries) or transfer force (like throwing a ball).
What Your Core Actually Needs
A truly strong core functions like a corset, not just a hinge. Here’s how to train it right:
- Engage Your Deep Core First
- Transverse abdominis (TA): Try “drawing in” your belly button toward your spine (like zipping up tight jeans).
- Pelvic floor: Imagine gently stopping the flow of urine (these muscles work with your TA).
- Anti-Movement Exercises – these teach your core to remain engaged when you move your limbs around:
- Dead Bug: Challenges your core to hold your lower back from lifting off of the floor.
- Pallof Press: Challenges your core to stay square against resistance.
- Bird dogs: Focus on alignment and cross-body coordination
- Integrate Your Core with Full-Body Movements
- Farmer’s Carries: Walking with weights forces your core to stabilize under load.
- Squats & Deadlifts (with proper form!): Your core must engage to protect your spine.
Who Should Especially Avoid Crunches?
- People with acute back pain or acute flares-ups of chronic back pain (crunches may irritate the soft tissues around the spine).
- Postpartum women (can worsen diastasis recti).
- Those with poor posture (encourages “hunching” forward).
Try This Instead: A 5-Minute Core Reset
- Dead Bug x 10 reps/side
- Lie on your back, knees bent 90°. Slowly lower opposite arm/leg while keeping your back flat.
- Side Plank (Knees or Feet) x 30 sec/side
- Stack hips and shoulders; resist sagging.
- Standing Pallof Press x 8 reps/side
- Anchor a resistance band at chest height. Press straight out without rotating.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
- Assess your core engagement patterns (many people “cheat” with neck or hip flexors).
- Correct breathing mechanics (yes, it’s core-related!).
- Design a personalized program for your needs (e.g., post-injury, postpartum, or athletic performance).
Rethink Your Core
Strong cores aren’t built on gym mats—they’re built through smart, functional training that translates to real life, and are meant to work as a stabiliser, protector, and powerhouse.
Need help? Book an appointment with us at Pivotal Motion Physiotherapy. Our physiotherapists and exercise physiologists will be able to discuss with you in more depth on how we can help you. Book online or call us on 3352 5116.