Reebok core training: stabilizing the power within - Trends - Cover Story - Brief Article

Revolutionizing the way we train our bodies for optimal health and performance, Reebok unveils a new workout regimen called Reebok Core Training. Launching globally, Reebok Core Training is a dynamic strength and conditioning program that focuses on developing total body power by emphasizing the abs, torso and "core" muscles. Central to the program is the Reebok Core Board, the first exercise board offering three-dimensional action that tilts, twists, torques and recoils with the body's movements. When used together, Reebok Core Training and the Reebok Core Board provide a highly effective strength training workout.

"Reebok is uniquely positioned to enhance and change the lifestyles of millions of people. This began when Step Reebok, now an international fitness phenomenon, was first introduced more than 10 years ago," says Kathy O'Connell, vice president of fitness and interactive marketing for Reebok. "With all the benefits Reebok Core Training offers, plus the fun, high-energy total body workout the Core Board provides, we're excited to delight the world again with an innovative, unprecedented program that represents the future of athletic and strength conditioning."

How Does the Reebok Core Board Work?

When using the Reebok Core Board, users immediately feel their bodies react to the movable base. The board's instability forces the user to adjust, hold a position and balance. Thus, providing a workout unlike any other previously experienced on wobble boards, stability balls, trampolines or conventional exercise machines, such as stationary bikes, stair climbers and treadmills. This key difference challenges Reebok Core Board users to work harder and "fire" their inner core muscles and strength to stabilize.

The Reebok Core Board is adjustable, so as users build strength, they can change the board's resistance to create more versatile workouts.

What Makes Reebok Core Training so Effective?

Developed by experts at Reebok University and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), Reebok Core Training represents a significant shift in exercise and training by focusing on the quality, not the quantity, of movement. Based on athletic and physical therapy training principles, Reebok Core Training strengthens the central zone or core muscles. The core is our fundamental muscle source for balance, posture and overall body strength. When strengthened and conditioned, the core muscles can improve our performance in daily activities, whether in sports, exercise classes or playing with children.

"Core training is perhaps the most basic component of training that has been overlooked. Until now, training and conditioning have been focused on the superficial muscles that move our arms and legs," explains Stephanie Montgomery, director of Reebok University. "With Reebok Core Training, we realize that strong core muscles--the deepest muscle layers in the body--are central to the body's movements and fluidity. Focusing on them will help improve our functional strength, which means we can become more productive in our everyday activities, like walking with a briefcase or picking up a baby, as well as other fitness and sporting activities at higher skill levels."

Reebok Core Training easily adapts to all levels, from professional athletes to conditioned exercisers to beginners, as well as all situations, including sport training, group exercise, personal training and physical therapy. In addition to helping improve balance, coordination, posture and reaction, Reebok Core Training helps firm muscles, increase power, build strength, decrease risk of injury, as well as increase cardiovascular and athletic training.

In the athletic community, many professional athletes like Julie Foudy, co-captain of the Women's U.S. National Soccer Team, embrace Reebok Core Training because of the new dimension it brings to their training. "Core strength is a must-have on the soccer field to be able to quickly pivot, change direction and react," says Foudy. "Yet until the Reebok Core Board, I've never [been able to find] a tool to help me effectively mimic this multi-dimensional range of motion. Reebok Core Training is an incredible training resource that has definitely helped me improve my reflexes and overall game."

All Aboard!

The Reebok Core Board has a suggested retail price of $190. An introductory instructional video is also included with each Reebok Core Board purchase. Consumers may purchase the Reebok Core Board by calling (800) Reebok1 or by visiting www.reebokcoregear.com

Fitness professionals and club owners interested in purchasing the commercial version of the Reebok Core Board for their clubs should call Fitness Associates at (800) 627-2210, ext. 104.

About Reebok University

Reebok is known all over the world as the leading source for innovative fitness and training programs. Since 1989, Reebok University, the fitness and sports programming arm of Reebok, has developed some of the world's most popular and influential exercise regimens, including Step Reebok. All Reebok University programs are developed by experts at Reebok University and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). All programs meet the criteria set forth by certifying organizations such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA).