Abstract
Anyone and everyone can be an athlete. Our basic movement patterns and musculoskeletal requirements are the same; however, the demands and speed at which we execute particular movements are very different. Thus, no matter one’s age, shape, or size, we all need to maintain a baseline level of strength for optimal health and total well-being. The critical areas are our lower extremities, in particular our gluteal and core muscles. All of our power is generated from these areas. In addition, the gluteal and core muscles allow for full range of motion (ROM) and provide stability for the entire body. Without core and gluteal strength, athletes (especially the aging athlete) will be less efficient in their sport and will be more prone to injury. Thus, to perform pain free and enjoy their activity to the maximum, aging athletes should regularly incorporate core and gluteal strengthening into their routine exercise. This chapter will discuss the importance of core and gluteal strengthening by presenting efficiency of movement, common injuries associated with weak core and glute muscle groups, and literature supporting a relationship between gluteal and core strength and injury.
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Abbreviations
- 3DMAPS:
-
3D Movement Analysis & Performance Systems
- ITBS:
-
Iliotibial band syndrome
- PFP:
-
Patellofemoral pain
- ROM:
-
Range of motion
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Zakko, P., DeAngelo, R. (2018). Importance of Core and Gluteus Strengthening. In: Wright, V., Middleton, K. (eds) Masterful Care of the Aging Athlete. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-16223-2_17
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-16223-2_17
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