To the Core

There were no Monday blues today.  The week started off with a bang and I am looking forward to the rest of the training as the half marathon gets closer.  I am enjoying running in this nice crisp cold weather.  Speaking of nice, crisp and cold, the ladies and I had a long discussion about apples when picking our lunch selection at the local produce store today.  So many varieties, colours and shapes.  Our in house favorite right now based on store availability is the Royal Gala.  I seriously love this apple.  You have to make sure you pick one with a nice shiny skin to ensure maximum crunchiness.  It is my favourite after workout snack.
I was thinking about another part of the apple tonight when I hit the gym.  The core.  Just like apples we all come in various shapes and sizes, and those of us blest with children have had our bellies stretched to the limit at one point or another, and a select few of us who were blest with twins.... well if I showed you a picture you would be mesmerized....but don't hold your breath.
A strong core is even more important to those of us over 40.   Core strengthening develops the muscles of the stomach, back and hips.  Bonus of course is a toned tummy but the benefits to the rest of our body are huge. On top of all the health benefits comes the added benefit of paving the way to our inner "stronger and faster" runner.  So spending time to strengthen your core is a "no brainer".
Tonight I tried a completely new core workout courtesy of Women's Health Magazine.  I managed to go through all the exercises and it was a really great workout.  I definitely felt the burn and I am going to continue doing these sets for awhile and see how I progress.  I did my regular routine on top of these exercises and started the whole session off with a 30 minute run on the treadmill
I know that the core exercises I have done to date have improved my running performances as well as my form.  I also know there is room for improvement.  If I keep it up, I might just transform this "mother of four tummy" to a washboard stomach by summertime.
Enjoy your apples.....and don't forget the core.