Core training promises more than it can hold: A review of current literature and practical experience

Abstract

Introduction: Core training has a significant place in the training program of many athletes, from the recreational exerciser to the elite athlete. But does core training work as intended? Main section: In this article, the authors are critical to the assumptions that core training improves sports performance, while concurrently preventing injuries. Through a literature review and our experiences from working with elite athletes, we question the theoretical framework and documentation of the effects of this type of training, especially for athletes. Summary: Core training is not a defined nor specific training method; it is simply training of a group of muscles. In our opinion, core training has been given far too much importance for athletes at all levels, both as injury prevention and performance-enhancing measures.

Keywords

• abdominal and back muscles
• athletes
• sports performance
• injury prevention