Over 85% of people will suffer from back pain at some point in their life. For 1 in 3 adults it’s a common, recurring complaint. A lot of the back pain we see in physiotherapy practice is at least in part due to weak trunk muscles.
The trunk (or torso) is the area from the base of the neck to the pelvis.
The trunk (core) muscles provide movement, support and protection of the spine and a base for your arms and legs.
If these muscles become weak, you have a greater risk of injuring your back.In simple terms: most back pain can be prevented with just a little bit of exercise, and most of these exercises are simple (and painless). By exercising your trunk muscles regularly and at a level that suits your ability, you will potentially get rid of your back pain complaints and significantly lower your risk of injury.
The Plank is one of the most effective trunk strengthening exercise. It’s fast and easy (or as hard as you want to make it). Loo for our recommended trunk exercises in the News section of our website.