Core training is thought to be important to improve functional sport activities, particularly those involving force transfer through the abdominals and back, into the extremities. For example, much of the strength and power required to throw a baseball comes from the force transmitted through the core from the legs. This is an example of the ‘kinetic chain,” where different parts of the body are interconnected and all contribute in some way to performing a functional activity.

Few studies have investigated the effects of core training on functional performance. Athletic training researchers investigated the effects of a shoulder training program with and without core stability exercises. 19 baseball players were randomly assigned to an open and closed-chain exercise program, or the same program with additional core training. 15 healthy age-matched non athletes were used as a quasi-control group. Each subject was tested for throwing accuracy, core stability, and proprioception before and after the 6-week program.

Both groups performed a shoulder training program that included free weights, closed-chain balance board, step-up, and exercise ball exercises, as well as plyometric ball tosses. The core training group also performed stabilization exercises such as the dead bug, sit-up, bridge, wall slides, and sitting on an exercise ball.

After the training program, More >