Stomach injury and exercises for rehab

When we think of injuries and rehab, we usually think of knees, shoulders, low back, ankles - but the stomach? Not one that often occurs to us. Yet ironically, taking care of the stomach is essential if you are to maintain the rest of your body in top shape. The reason? Just about every movement you make relies on the stomach to provide a stable platform. The muscles of the stomach are the link and the core from which both our arms and our legs move. If you have a weak stomach it will affect everything, from running to swimming, kicking a ball to swinging a racket.

Although strengthening the stomach isn't too arduous, it's worth doing it right. A well-designed programme of core exercises will not only help to maximise your performance in other sports, it will also dramatically reduce your chances of injury, particularly to the vulnerable low back. Fortunately most health clubs and fitness centres now have professional trainers certified in core training. Whether you join a core conditioning class or work one-on-one with a trainer, you will get a programme designed to gradually build and strengthen this crucial area.

If you have had previous injuries to this area, then be sure to check first with your doctor that you are ready to resume exercise, and let the trainer know about your injury history. Once you have the all-clear, go for it! Not only will you feel better, you'll look better too.