The Core Truth

Strength & Stability

“A strong core isn’t about the six-pack—it’s about how you move, feel, and live.”

Why Core Training Matters (And It’s Not About the Six-Pack)

Everyone wants to work on their core.
But most people do it for the wrong reasons.

Would it be cool to have a washboard stomach? Sure.
But if that’s the goal, doing a thousand sit-ups a day won’t cut it—fixing your nutrition would be a better place to start.

When we talk about the core at Shelby Trained, we’re not just talking about the muscles you see in the mirror.
We’re talking about the deeper layers of muscle that:

• Support your spine

• Improve posture

• Reduce back pain

• Help you move better in everyday life

Why Core Strength Comes First

A well-designed training program should always include core work—especially for beginners.

Expecting someone to perform loaded squats or deadlifts without first developing the core strength to support that load is a fast track to injury.

That’s why we prioritize core training—not for aesthetics, but for function and longevity.

3 Key Functions of the Core (and How We Train Them)

1. Anti-Extension

Prevents your spine from arching too much.
Examples:

• Dead Bugs

• Ab Wheel Rollouts

• Overhead Med Ball Slams

2. Anti-Rotation

Helps resist unnecessary twisting of the torso.
Examples:

• Pallof Press

• Plank Shoulder Taps

• Med Ball Anti-Rotations

3. Anti-Lateral Flexion

Keeps hips aligned and prevents side-bending.
Examples:

• Side Planks

• Offset Carries (holding a weight on one side)

Watch a Simple Core Demo:

Final Thought

Yes, a strong core might help flatten your stomach.
But more importantly—it helps you move better, feel better, and stay pain-free.

Train your core not for looks, but for function.
Because the stronger your center, the stronger everything else becomes.

— Coach Shelby and The Shelby Trained Team