A few runners espouse the benefits of a strong core (midsection) in marathoning. I've also read about it quite a bit. In the past, I've tried some of the recommended routines (crushes, back arches, side twists). I found them beneficial, but simply I lack the self-discipline to do them consistently. So I was enthusiastic to see that my local gym offered a 25 minute "core" class every other day.
The class gathered, literally 10 women and me. The instructor welcomed us, "Morning ladies," then a slight pause, "..and guy. We usually get one token guy." She then instructed us to grab our balls. Being mostly women, I assumed her meaning was different than the typical man's instinctive interpretation. One by one, the ladies approached the nearby closet and retrieved a large soft pink bouncy ball. Had I been anywhere near the exit, I would have inconspicuously moon-walked backwards and out the door. But I was cornered; accordingly, I tried to traverse across the "studio" floor as manly as possible. For a brief moment it occurred to me to place my index-finger across my nose, and blow out a wad of snot as definitive proof that I wasn't gay!
It was embarrassing enough, but I just prayed that one of the weight-lifting type of fellows wouldn't walk by and notice; certainly I would be later ostracized from the locker room acknowledgments like, "What's up" and "Hey." The insecurity was one thing, but now I was sure that it would be a complete waste of time.
I assumed that the class would be hundreds of hardcore crunches and hanging leg curls. I mean, how much core workout can you get from a bouncy ball? Turns out quite a bit. After 15 minutes I was continually glancing at the clock, "When is this going to end?" Not only did the individual exercises produce the "burn", but the wide variety really hit all aspects of the core: upper abs, lower abs, obliques, lower back.
So, I guess that I will sacrifice my tough guy he-man persona if it helps me get closer to a sub 3:00 marathon.
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